Fluid can accumulate between the lung membranes. This can cause a feeling of breathlessness. During a pleural puncture, the physician will remove fluid from between the lung membranes. Further analysis will reveal the cause of the fluid accumulation. If there is a lot of fluid and your breathing is impeded, the physician may drain more fluid during the pleural puncture. This is called an "evacuating puncture”.
How do I prepare?
- Fasting is not necessary.
- Are you taking medication that can affect blood clotting and/or are you taking anti-platelet medication? Be sure to report this to your physician. Often you will need to stop taking these medications.
What happens during a pleural puncture?
- A pleural puncture is performed by a physician, at the endoscopy department's day clinic
- You will be connected to the monitor and will receive extra oxygen via nose goggles if necessary.
- You will sit on the edge of the bed or examination table with your upper body bared.
- The physician will perform an ultrasound to look at the fluid build-up between the lung membranes.
- The physician will numb the skin and lung membrane using an injection.
- The pulmonologist will insert a needle between two ribs. This needle goes into the space between the two lung membranes and sucks up the pleural fluid. If necessary, this fluid will be sent to the laboratory for further testing.
- The location of the puncture will be covered with a patch. You will remain in observation for the first half hour after the procedure. At your physician request, if necessary, x-rays will be taken to properly assess the effect of the pleural puncture.
The procedure takes about 5 to 10 minutes. An evacuating puncture takes more time, as more liquid is removed slowly.