Pleural tap, also known as thoracentesis, is a medical procedure used to remove excess fluid from the pleural space, the area between the lungs and the chest wall. This fluid, known as pleural effusion, can accumulate due to various conditions such as heart failure, pneumonia, cancer, or cirrhosis. The procedure involves inserting a thin needle or catheter through the chest wall into the pleural space to drain the fluid. The removal of excess fluid helps relieve symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing, and allows for laboratory analysis to determine the underlying cause of the effusion.
Thoracentesis is typically performed when there is a significant buildup of fluid causing discomfort or difficulty breathing, or when the cause of the effusion needs to be diagnosed. While generally safe, thoracentesis carries some risks and potential complications. These may include pain or discomfort at the needle insertion site, bleeding, or infection. There is also a risk of puncturing the lung, leading to a pneumothorax (collapsed lung), which can cause sudden chest pain and difficulty breathing and may require additional treatment, such as the insertion of a chest tube. Rarely, the procedure can result in damage to nearby organs, such as the liver or spleen, particularly if they are enlarged. To minimize risks, thoracentesis is performed using ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate needle placement, and patients are closely monitored during and after the procedure for any signs of complications.
