thoracentesis
Pronunciation: thor-ah-sen-TEE-sis
Minimally invasive procedure to remove fluid from the pleural space for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
Full Definition
Thoracentesis is a commonly performed procedure involving insertion of a needle or small catheter into the pleural space to aspirate pleural fluid. In thoracic oncology, it serves both diagnostic and therapeutic functions: diagnostically to analyze pleural fluid for malignant cells, protein content, and other markers; therapeutically to relieve dyspnea caused by large pleural effusions. The procedure is typically performed under ultrasound guidance to improve safety and success rates. Complications are rare but can include pneumothorax, bleeding, or infection. Large-volume thoracentesis may provide temporary symptom relief in malignant pleural effusion.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from thoracostomy (chest tube placement); specify if diagnostic or therapeutic.
In Context
- "Ultrasound-guided thoracentesis yielded 800ml of hemorrhagic pleural fluid." — Procedure note
- "Cytological analysis of thoracentesis fluid revealed malignant cells consistent with adenocarcinoma." — Pathology report