Thoracentesis: Risks
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Risks
Thoracentesis is generally a safe procedure. A chest X-ray is usually done right after the procedure to make sure that no complications have occurred. Complications may include:
- A partial collapse of the lung (pneumothorax). This may occur if the needle used to remove the pleural fluid punctures the lung, allowing air to flow into the pleural space.
- Pulmonary edema, which may occur if a large amount of fluid is removed.
- Infection and bleeding.
- Damage to the liver or spleen, though this is rare.
| Last updated: | March 21, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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