Thoracocentesis

Thoracocentesis is the removal of fluid from the chest cavity (pleural effusion). Thoracocentesis can be an emergency procedure, as pleural effusion can cause respiratory distress, especially in cats. Removal of the fluid is often necessary to stabilize an animal.  A small area is clipped and cleanly prepped, and then a catheter is inserted into the chest cavity, and fluid is drained and submitted for analysis.