Ultrasound-Guided Paracentesis

Abstract

Abstract Paracentesis is a commonly performed bedside procedure by which peritoneal fluid is obtained from the peritoneal cavity. This procedure is performed in patients with ascites for diagnostic and/or therapeutic reasons. The procedure can be done with or without the use of ultrasound in assisting with the procedure. As ultrasound can detect as little as 100mL of fluid, it is considered the gold standard for diagnosing ascites. While educational resources on traditional nonultrasound-guided paracentesis are available, few video resources are available on the use of ultrasound for this procedure. The ultrasound resources that are currently available discuss scanning techniques but little information is included on the paracentesis procedure itself. As such, this video intends to bridge the existing gap by providing an educational resource that describes paracentesis in a more comprehensive manner, including the use of ultrasound in guiding the procedure. Specifically, this video covers the steps necessary for the performance of the paracentesis. Three techniques are described in the video: blind, static, and dynamic ultrasound technique. The use of two types of ultrasound devices are illustrated in the video in order to maximize the chance that viewers of the video can translate the steps for the use of an ultrasound to the device from their own institution. The video also covers indications and contradictions for performing the procedure, patient consent, patient preparation and positioning, performing the initial scan, required equipment, preprocedure time out, equipment set-up and preparation, sterilization and draping, ultrasound probe set-up, procedure, and aftercare.

Keywords

• Therapeutics
• Physical Examination
• Ultrasound
• Paracentesis
• Diagnosis
• Ultrasonography