The way they remove fluid from the abdomen is through a procedure called abdominal paracentesis also known an abdominal tap.
An abdominal paracentesis is a procedure that drains excess fluid from your abdomen which reduces pressure and discomfort.
An abdominal paracentesis is also known as an abdominal tap and is where a needle is used to drain fluid from your abdomen and is a procedure done to relieve symptoms caused by fluid buildup such as shortness of breath, abdominal pain and bloating.
By removing the excess fluid through the abdominal paracentesis, the pressure is reduced on the internal organs and can lead to immediate relief of any symptoms.
After the abdominal paracentesis it's normal to experience some pain or discomfort at the puncture site and it's normal for a small amount of fluid to leak from the site and you may also feel and have a softer abdomen after the procedure.
Abdominal paracentesis is not painful in most cases although you may feel some minimal pain with the needle insertion.
Most people that have abdominal paracentesis experience only some brief discomfort or pressure during the abdominal paracentesis procedure.
Before the abdominal paracentesis procedure a local anesthetic which is a numbing medication will be applied to the area in which the needle will be inserted.
The local anesthetic will help to minimize any pain or discomfort during the needle insertion and abdominal paracentesis procedure.
You may also feel some pressure or fullness in your abdomen as the fluid is being drained and after the procedure you may also experience some mild tenderness or swelling at the needle insertion site but it's usually pretty manageable.
Complications can occur but are rare after an abdominal paracentesis procedure.
Some possible but rare complications after an abdominal paracentesis procedure include infection, bleeding or organ puncture but these complications are rare and are often preventable with proper care.
And in some cases an ultrasound may also be used to guide the needle during insertion during the abdominal paracentesis procedure as it can ensure accuracy and also minimize any discomfort.
And after the abdominal paracentesis procedure it's important that you follow your doctors or healthcare provider's instructions regarding the wound care and instructions on any activities you can do.