A : A thoracentesis is a needle aspiration of air or fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. It is often used for diagnostic or treatment purposes. Below i've linked to a website that gives really good in-depth information about the procedure and what to expect. I hope it is able to answer most of your questions. Good luck to you and your dad!
Answered 10/3/2016
5.3k views
Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is a procedure that allows removal of fluid from the pleural space (the space between the lungs and the rib cage). Normally there should be little or no fluid there. If fluid does accumulate a physician can insert a needle between the ribs (under local anesthesia) and drain some or all of the fluid. The fluid can then be tested to see what caused its accumulation.
Answered 7/31/2013
5.3k views
A doctor has provided 1 answer
6 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
A doctor has provided 1 answer
A doctor has provided 1 answer
2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your question