Thoracentesis

Indications

Insert

Contraindications

Insert

Equipment Needed

1. Labs
   1. Protein, glucose, LDH, cell count, Gram stain, culture, cytology, ABG (pH), amylase, AFB, India ink,

Procedure

Insert

Complications

1. pneumothorax
2. cough (9%)
3. unilateral pulmonary edema
4. reexpansion hypotension
5. transient hypoxia from V-Q mismatch
6. hemothorax
7. infection (2%)
8. hemoperitoneum

See Also

Pleural Effusion

Source

Robert and Hedges, p.145 (130-147)