Interventional Radiology: Chest
Thoracentesis (Taps)

Thoracentesis is generally performed to withdraw or sample fluid, which has accumulated in the pleural space (around the lungs). Depending on the volume and location of fluid to be withdrawn the procedure may be performed under ultrasound or CT guidance.

If thoracentesis is performed under ultrasound, the patient is seated leaning over a table or a pillow to locate the largest area of fluid. The skin is numbed with a local anesthetic, usually Lidocaine and a small 1/4 inch incision is made. The patient may be asked to hold their breath while a small catheter is inserted into the back and fluid is withdrawn. The patient may cough as the lung re-expands.

If thoracentesis is performed under CT guidance, the patient assumes a stomach lying position and the largest pocket of fluid is located with CT imaging. Intravenous contrast injection is not necessary to complete this procedure. The skin is numbed and as is performed under ultrasound a small catheter is inserted into the back and the accumulated fluid is removed for therapeutic relief and / or diagnostic purposes.

The tube is removed after the procedure and often a chest x-ray is performed to verify that no air is left in the pleural space.

No preparation is required for thoracentesis procedure.