Paracentesis is a procedure used to remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity. The fluid buildup may be caused by infection, inflammation, injury, cirrhosis or cancer. A diagnostic paracentesis is performed to determine the cause of the fluid buildup, while a therapeutic paracentesis is performed to relieve shortness of breath and pain.
Paracentesis is a procedure used to remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity. The fluid buildup may be caused by infection, inflammation, injury, cirrhosis or cancer. A diagnostic paracentesis is performed to determine the cause of the fluid buildup, while a therapeutic paracentesis is performed to relieve shortness of breath and pain.