Internal Medicine

Abdominocentesis

Abdominocentesis is the process of inserting a small gauge needle into the abdomen to evaluate if fluid is present and obtain a sample for further testing. This quick procedure can be done on an outpatient basis, will not typically require sedation and may be performed with ultrasound guidance. If excessive abdominal fluid is causing discomfort, abdominocentesis might also be recommended as a palliative treatment.