Doctors remove excess water from the lungs using a procedure called thoracentesis.
Understanding Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis is a medical procedure where a needle is inserted through the chest wall into the pleural space (the area between the lungs and the chest wall) to remove excess fluid. This procedure is crucial for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Why is Water Removed?
Fluid accumulation in the pleural space, known as pleural effusion, can cause:
- Difficulty breathing.
- Chest pain.
- Coughing.
How is Thoracentesis Performed?
The procedure typically involves these steps:
- Imaging Guidance: Doctors often use ultrasound to guide the needle insertion, ensuring accuracy and minimizing risks.
- Needle Insertion: A needle is carefully inserted through the chest wall into the pleural space.
- Fluid Removal: The excess fluid is then drained through the needle.
- Analysis: The removed fluid can be analyzed to determine the underlying cause of the fluid buildup.
When is Thoracentesis Used?
According to the provided reference, doctors do thoracentesis to both remove excess fluid and determine what's causing it. The procedure can be done on an outpatient basis depending on the severity of the condition. This makes it a flexible and crucial tool in treating various conditions affecting the lungs.
Summary
Procedure | Who Performs It? | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Thoracentesis | Doctors | Removes excess fluid from the lungs and diagnoses underlying conditions |