Best Doctor List Near You for Paracentesis in Woodside

Paracentesis is a medical procedure in which a needle or catheter is inserted into the abdominal cavity to remove excess fluid, known as ascites, that has accumulated due to various conditions. This fluid buildup often occurs in patients with liver cirrhosis, heart failure, or cancer. The primary goal of paracentesis is to relieve discomfort caused by the pressure of the fluid, such as abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and swelling. In addition to its therapeutic use, paracentesis can also be diagnostic, allowing doctors to analyze the fluid for signs of infection, cancer cells, or other abnormalities that may point to the underlying cause of the ascites. The main causes for performing paracentesis include advanced liver disease, in which impaired liver function leads to fluid leakage into the abdominal cavity, as well as kidney disease, heart failure, or infections like peritonitis. In cases of cancer, particularly abdominal cancers, fluid may accumulate as a result of tumor activity. Complications of paracentesis are relatively rare but can include infection at the needle insertion site, accidental injury to surrounding organs, or bleeding, particularly in patients with clotting disorders. There is also a risk of fluid reaccumulation, meaning the procedure may need to be repeated. In some cases, excessive removal of fluid can lead to low blood pressure or kidney dysfunction. Despite these potential risks, paracentesis is considered a safe and effective method for managing ascites, providing significant relief from symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with fluid-related abdominal distension.