Paracentesis

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A paracentesis is a medical "procedure in which fluid is withdrawn from a body cavity via a trocar and cannula, needle, or other hollow instrument."[1][2] A paracentesis usually refers to removing ascites.

Procedure

The location of the inferior epigastric artery within the sheath of the rectus muscle.

If a lower quadrant is used, inserting the needle lateral to the rectus muscle will avoid the inferior hypogastric artery.

Interpretation results

A serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) of less than 1.1 g/dL lowers the probability of portal hypertension.[2]

References