A thoracocentesis is the removal of excess fluid from the pleural space. It is done with a needle and syringe, under sterile conditions. The skin will be numbed with medication. The fluid can be sent to the laboratory for analysis. If there are mesothelioma cells in the fluid, the diagnosis can be made. The fluid can also be removed if there is a lot and it is compromising the patient’s ability to breathe.
Dr. Kaplan
