How should I prepare for my procedure?

If your previous imaging was not done at one of our locations, you may be asked to contact your former provider and request that your film be sent to us for a comparison study.

• If you are taking warfarin (Coumadin), you will need to have an INR and Platelet count drawn the day before or the day of the procedure, prior to arriving.
• If you are taking blood thinners, you will need to hold the medication prior to your procedure.
• Do not eat or drink for 4 hours before your appointment.
• Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment time.
• You will need a driver/ride home after your first procedure; subsequent procedures a driver is optional.

How long will my procedure take?

Paracentesis procedures typically take 45-60 minutes, with an additional 30-60 minutes monitoring post-procedure.

What happens during my procedure?

You will be positioned on a cushioned table. The needle insertion site will be cleansed and draped with sterile towels. A numbing medicine will be applied to your abdomen. Once the area is numb, the needle will be inserted and the fluid will be removed.

What happens after my procedure?

If this was a diagnostic procedure, a sample of fluid will be sent to a laboratory for examination. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider.

You will be monitored for 30-60 minutes after your procedure.