Mesothelioma Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis is a mesothelioma treatment procedure that removes this accumulated fluid from between the pleural layers.To relieve symptoms and control pain, the doctor may use a needle or a thin tube to drain fluid that has built up in the chest.This procedure aids in breathing and reduces stress and pressure on the lungs.
Thoracentesis is an invasive procedure to remove fluid or air from the pleural space for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. A cannula, or hollow needle, is carefully introduced into the thorax, generally after administration of local anesthesia. The procedure was first described in 1852.The recommended location varies depending upon the source. Some sources recommend the midaxillary line, in the sixth, seventh, or eighth intercostal space.
Contraindications
An uncooperative patient or a coagulation disorder that can not be corrected are absolute contraindications.
Relative contraindications include cases in which the site of insertion has known bullous disease (e.g. emphysema), use of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP, see mechanical ventilation) and only one functioning lung (due to diminished reserve). The aspiration should not exceed 1L as there is a risk of development of pulmonary edema.
Complications
Major complications are pneumothorax (3-30%), hemopneumothorax, hemorrhage, hypotension (low blood pressure due to a vasovagal response) and reexpansion pulmonary edema.Minor complications include a dry tap (no fluid return), subcutaneous hematoma or seroma, anxiety, dyspnea and cough (after removing large volume of fluid).
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org
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