Paracentesis

Removing Excess Adominal Fluid

What is a Paracentesis?

A Paracentesis is a procedure to remove excess fluid that has accumulated in the abdominal cavity (peritoneal fluid).

The test is performed for either diagnostic tests or to provide symptomatic relief.

The procedure is performed by a radiologist under Ultrasound or Computed Tomography (CT or CAT scan) guidance.

What is the Preparation for a Paracentesis?

  • You are not required to fast before your paracentesis.
  • Patients taking aspirin and ibuprofen containing medications, multivitamins, garlic, and Fish Oil (Omega three)   are asked to stop these medications if time permits.
  • Patients taking Coumadin, Persantine, Plavix, or Platel may be asked to hold these medications after their treating physician has given consent to hold the medication.  This will be coordinated by the nurse at Advanced Imaging and your treating physician.   You will be notified what day to hold your medication, if time permits.
  • You may be asked to change into a patient gown, but in most cases you will be able to keep your pants on.  Pants with an elastic waist band work well.  No belt or wallet in pocket.

Pre Procedure

  • A nurse from Advanced Imaging will call to obtain a medical history prior to your procedure,  as well as a current list of medications you are taking (this will include herbal medications, multivitamins, etc.).

Can I drive myself?

  • You should have someone drive you.

How long will I be at Advanced Imaging?

  • Depending on the amount of fluid present and how you tolerate the procedure, an average length of stay is 1 to 1 ½ hours.

What to Expect the day of the Paracentesis.

  • Upon your arrival at Advanced Imaging you will check in with the receptionist.  You will be asked to provide a picture ID (usually a license) and a valid insurance card.
  • You will be asked to complete and sign the Authorization for Care and Release of Health Information.  (If you wish to allow any other person to receive your medical information or have your results released to anyone, other than yourself you will indicate that on this form)
  • You will be given and asked to sign the Acknowledgement of Receipt of Notice of Privacy Practices.
  • Family members will be asked to wait in the lobby when you are called for your procedure.
  • You will be asked to sign consent for treatment and given an opportunity to ask questions prior to the procedure.
  • A nurse will evaluate your vital signs.
  • You will be escorted to the Ultrasound suite and positioned so the physician can easily reach the area with fluid.
  • Using ultrasound guidance the technologist will locate the area with the accumulated fluid.
  • The radiologist will prep the area with betadine and administer a local anesthetic.
  • The paracentesis needle will be advanced slowly, and once in place tubing will be inserted into an evacuated container for the drainage of the fluid.
  • Firm pressure will be applied to the procedure site and A band aid will be applied.
  • Your vital signs will be assessed before you are discharged and fluids will be offered.
  • Discharge usually is within 15 minutes after the completion of the procedure.

Home Care

  • If the procedure site is tender or sore the following day you may take Tylenol for pain.
  • You may shower the following day
  • Avoid any strenuous or physical activities for 24 hours following the procedure.
  • No swimming or sitting in a hot tub for 24 hours after the procedure.
  • You may resume your regular diet and fluid intake.
  • You may remove your band aid in 48 hours.  If it becomes wet beforehand apply a new band aid.
  • Any medication placed on hold may be resumed the following day.

Report any of the following to Advanced Imaging:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Fever or chills.
  • Vomiting or diarrhea.
  • Any seepage of fluid from the puncture site.

You will receive a follow up phone call the day following your procedure from the nurse at Advanced Imaging.

Exam Results

  • Specimens are sent to an independent Pathologist for evaluation
  • Your physician will receive a separate written report from the radiologist and pathologist within two to seven days.   It is important to keep your follow up appointment to obtain these results.

If you are unable to keep your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible.  Should you be admitted to the hospital, please inform your physician about your appointment.

If you have any questions please call Advanced Imaging at : 941-235-4646 and ask to speak to the nurse.

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