Equipment used Plastic sheet or absorbent pad. Needle or trocar and cannula. Description of test You or a close relative will be required to sign a consent form after the procedure has been explained to you. Before the test, empty your bladder. This helps prevent accidental bladder injury during insertion of the needle.
Skin is cleaned with antiseptic.
Local anesthetic is administered over abdomen where puncture is made, usually 1 or 2 inches below the navel. Trochar is introduced into the abdominal cavity. Needle and trochar are removed. Pressure dressing is applied. Fluid is sent to the laboratory for analysis.