Paracentesis is a medical procedure that involves the insertion of a needle into the abdominal cavity to remove excess fluid (ascites) for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. Indications for paracentesis include:
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Diagnostic Purposes:
- To determine the cause of ascites (e.g., cirrhosis, malignancy, infection).
- To analyze the fluid for the presence of infection (e.g., spontaneous bacterial peritonitis).
- To evaluate for malignant cells in cases of suspected cancer.
- To assess for conditions such as tuberculous peritonitis or pancreatitis.
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Therapeutic Purposes:
- To relieve symptoms of discomfort or abdominal distension caused by large volumes of fluid.
- To improve respiratory function in patients with tense ascites.
- To facilitate further treatments, such as chemotherapy or other interventions.
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Acute Management:
- In emergency situations where there is suspicion of infection or significant fluid accumulation when other treatments are not adequate.
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Management of Malignancies:
- To relieve symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with malignant ascites.
Before performing paracentesis, clinicians typically assess the patient's overall clinical condition, the volume of fluid present, and any contraindications such as coagulopathy or infection at the site of needle insertion.