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Paracentesis

Also known as: abdominal drainage.

What is paracentesis?

Certain medical conditions ranging from injury to infection can cause excess fluid to build up in the abdomen. Paracentesis is the procedure that medical professional turn to in order to remove this excess fluid.

What happens during the procedure?

A small needle is inserted into the abdomen, and then the fluid is drained from the abdomen using the needle. In some cases, multiple drainages will need to be performed. The fluid may be sent to a lab if testing is required on it.

Is any special preparation needed?

No special preparation is needed for abdominal drainage.

What are the risk factors?

Bleeding, infection, injury to surrounding tissues or perforation of the bowels are potential risks of abdominal drainage.

Reviewed by: Carrie Firestone Baum, MD

This page was last updated on: 9/16/2025 12:39:03 PM

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