US Medical Term · procedures
Paracentesis
Paracentesis
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Paracentesis |
| Spanish (Español) | Paracentesis |
| Chinese (中文) | 腹腔穿刺術 |
| Korean (한국어) | 복강천자술 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Chọc dịch ổ bụng |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Paracentesis |
| Portuguese (Português) | Paracentese |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | การเจาะน้ำในช่องท้อง |
| Japanese (日本語) | 腹腔穿刺術 |
What it means
Paracentesis is a procedure in which a needle or thin catheter is inserted through the abdominal wall to remove fluid that has accumulated in the abdominal cavity (the peritoneal space). This fluid buildup, called ascites, is commonly caused by liver disease, cirrhosis, cancer, or heart failure. The procedure is done under local anesthesia and typically takes 20 to 45 minutes. Ultrasound guidance helps ensure accurate needle placement. Large amounts of fluid, sometimes several liters, can be removed to relieve discomfort, swelling, and difficulty breathing. A sample of the fluid may be sent for laboratory testing to look for infection or cancer cells. Patients generally feel relief quickly and go home the same day.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My belly is very swollen from fluid because of my liver disease and my doctor wants to do a paracentesis.
Mi vientre está muy hinchado por líquido a causa de mi enfermedad hepática y mi médico quiere hacerme una paracentesis.
How often will I need to have paracentesis if fluid keeps coming back?
¿Con qué frecuencia necesitaré una paracentesis si el líquido sigue acumulándose?
Is paracentesis painful and how long does it take?
¿La paracentesis es dolorosa y cuánto tiempo dura?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026