Thoracocentesis is a technique used to remove fluid or air from the pleural space. It can be used as both a diagnostic tool and a therapeutic intervention.
Thoracocentesis aids in the diagnosis of many conditions including:
- Bilothorax (a rare complication following trauma or liver surgery)1
- Malignant effusions
- Effusions secondary to primary heart disease.
Since the procedure may need to be performed differently depending on whether a patient presents with either a large or small change in pleural space volume, 2 different techniques are described.