Paracentesis ultrasound

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This type of ultrasound removes fluid from the stomach area.

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Paracentesis helps doctors remove fluid from the stomach area using a soft, hollow tube called a catheter. This can reduce pressure and discomfort in the stomach. A sample of the fluid is then sent to the lab to find out what’s causing the buildup.

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About the procedure

Accordion Block v2

You will lie flat on your back with your head raised on a pillow or cushion. We'll use ultrasound to find the best place in the abdomen to get a fluid sample.

We'll clean the skin area with surgical soap and use a local anesthetic to numb the area.

Next, we'll put in the paracentesis needle and catheter. The needle and catheter will be attached to a small bottle to help drain the fluid. After enough fluid has been drained, we'll remove the catheter and cover the area with a bandage.

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You shouldn't take any blood thinners, including vitamin E and aspirin, for one week before your exam. Please talk to your doctor before you stop taking any of your medications.

The day before your exam

You'll need a prothrombin time (PT) test. It measures platelets and other parts of the blood to see how quickly your blood clots (stops bleeding). PT results are given in a measurement called INR (international normalized ratio).

On the day of your exam

Wear a comfortable two-piece outfit to your appointment.

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You can schedule your paracentesis ultrasound with a doctor's order by calling the diagnostic imaging department at 1-206-860-5496, option 2.

For general questions, please call us at 1-206-329-1760. For billing questions, call us at 1-260-860-4500.

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