what is thoracentesis
Guide. Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall called the pleural space. It is done with a needle (and sometimes a plastic catheter) inserted through the chest wall.Ultrasound pictures are often used to guide the placement of the needle.ormally only a small amount of pleural fluid is present in the pleural space. A buildup of excess pleural fluid (pleural effusion) may be caused by many conditions, such as infection, inflammation, heart failure, or cancer. If a large amount of fluid is present, it may be hard to breathe.
Instruments for thoracocentesis and needle biopsy of the pleura. Thoracentesis /ËÎ¸ÉrÉsÉ¨nËtiËsÉ¨s/ , (from Greek, thorax + centesis, puncture) also known as thoracocentesis or pleural tap, is an invasive procedure to remove fluid or air from the pleural space for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.nstruments for thoracocentesis and needle biopsy of the pleura. Thoracentesis /ËÎ¸ÉrÉsÉ¨nËtiËsÉ¨s/ , (from Greek, thorax + centesis, puncture) also known as thoracocentesis or pleural tap, is an invasive procedure to remove fluid or air from the pleural space for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.