Paracentesis
Paracentesis
Guide
You may feel dizzy or lightheaded if a large amount of fluid is taken out. Tell your doctor if you do not feel well during the test.
After the procedure, you may have some clear fluid draining from the site, especially if a large amount of fluid was taken out. The drainage will get less in 1 to 2 days. A small gauze pad and bandage may be needed. Ask your doctor how much drainage to expect.
There is a very small chance that the paracentesis needle may poke the bladder, bowel, or a blood vessel in the belly.
If cancer cells are present in the peritoneal fluid, there is a small chance that the cancer cells may be spread in the belly.
If a large amount of fluid is removed, there is a small chance that your blood pressure could drop to a low level. This could lead to shock. If you go into shock, IV fluids or medicines, or both, may be given to help return your blood pressure to normal. There is also a small chance that removing the peritoneal fluid may affect how your kidneys work. If this is a concern, IV fluids may be given during the paracentesis.
Call your doctor immediately if you have:
Paracentesis
Guide
How It Feels continued...
You may feel dizzy or lightheaded if a large amount of fluid is taken out. Tell your doctor if you do not feel well during the test.
After the procedure, you may have some clear fluid draining from the site, especially if a large amount of fluid was taken out. The drainage will get less in 1 to 2 days. A small gauze pad and bandage may be needed. Ask your doctor how much drainage to expect.
Risks
There is a very small chance that the paracentesis needle may poke the bladder, bowel, or a blood vessel in the belly.
If cancer cells are present in the peritoneal fluid, there is a small chance that the cancer cells may be spread in the belly.
If a large amount of fluid is removed, there is a small chance that your blood pressure could drop to a low level. This could lead to shock. If you go into shock, IV fluids or medicines, or both, may be given to help return your blood pressure to normal. There is also a small chance that removing the peritoneal fluid may affect how your kidneys work. If this is a concern, IV fluids may be given during the paracentesis.
After the test
Call your doctor immediately if you have:
- A fever higher than 100°F (38°C).
- Severe belly pain.
- More redness or tenderness in your belly.
- Blood in your urine.
- Bleeding or a lot of drainage from the site.
