Placement of a Thoracentesis Needle

In thoracentesis, the doctor removes fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall (the pleural cavity). The doctor inserts a needle (and sometimes a plastic catheter) through the chest wall to remove and examine the fluid.

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Placement of a Thoracentesis Needle

Placement of a thoracentesis needle

In thoracentesis, the doctor removes fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall (the pleural cavity). The doctor inserts a needle (and sometimes a plastic catheter) through the chest wall to remove and examine the fluid.

Current as ofJune 9, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
E. Gregory Thompson, MD – Internal Medicine
Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine
David C. Stuesse, MD – Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.