Admin_NHT Staff asked 6 years ago Thoracentesis, also known as a pleural tap, is performed to analyse the fluid filled in the pleural space around the lungs and to determine the cause of fluid accumulation. This pleural space typically contains very less fluid but certain conditions like cancer tumours, pneumonia, chronic lung diseases, or congestive heart failure can cause a fluid build-up in this pleural space. This fluid build-up is called pleural effusion and it results in difficulty in breathing.
This fluid build-up is drained and in certain cases examined. This whole procedure takes about 10-15 mins, but it may longer if there is more fluid. The doctor might also perform biopsy at the time of drainage to test for cancer. Before the procedure an ultrasound is performed to determine the position for tube insertion, then a small incision is made through which a tube is inserted into your pleural space to drain the liquid. You may be awake or sedated as per your doctor’s recommendation. It is advised to bring someone along to drive you home. In certain cases, you might be asked to stay overnight for observation. Since it is an invasive procedure, there are always certain risks associated like bleeding, infection, prolonged pain, or even accumulation of air causing a collapsed lung. If you are taking blood thinners, or diagnosed with a bleeding disorder, or susceptible to heart failure, you are not to undergo this procedure as it puts your life at risk.