Paracentesis

Directorate of Women’s and Perinatal Services

Information for Patients

University Hospitals of LeicesterNHS Trust

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What is Paracentesis? (Abdominal Tap)

The abdominal tap is a procedure in which a small tube isinserted through your abdominal wall to remove fluid fromwithin your abdomen.

Why do I need to have it done?

There are two reasons for having this procedure:

• To relieve pressure from within your abdomen from a build upof fluid called ascites.

• To remove a small amount of fluid to send to the laboratory tobe tested. You can expect to have the results of this testwithin a week.

Where will the procedure take place?

You will be admitted to a ward within the hospital you areattending.

What happens when I am in hospital?

• Before the procedure begins you will be asked to empty yourbladder.

• A nurse will help you onto the examination couch or bed andmake sure you sit up in a comfortable position.

• A doctor will give you a local anaesthetic (an injection to numbthe skin).

• During the procedure, a small tube will be inserted into yourabdomen and is sometimes secured by stitches. The fluid(ascites), will drain through this tube into a drainage bag.

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What happens when I am in hospital?

• You will be able to move around gently whilst the fluid isbeing drained into the drainage bag.

• When all the fluid has drained, (this could be over severalhours or overnight), the tube is removed and a dressing isapplied over the drainage site.

• You may experience slight discomfort during the procedure,but it should not be painful.

• Painkillers can be given if you experience any discomfort.Inform the nursing staff if this occurs.

What are the benefits?

• Having the fluid drained from your abdomen will relievediscomfort.

• The results of the test will help determine why the fluid ispresent.

What are the risks associated with Paracentesis?

There is a slight chance that your bowel might be puncturedduring the procedure. This may cause bleeding or infection. If alarge quantity of fluid is removed, there is a slight risk of loweredblood pressure. Your blood pressure, pulse and temperature willbe monitored regularly during your stay in hospital.

Contact details

If you have any questions you would like to ask, please contactyour Gynaecology Nurse Specialists (Key workers).

Tel: 0116 258 4840 Monday to Friday 8am - 4pm

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If you would like this information in anotherlanguage or format, please contact theservice equality manager on 0116 250 2959