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Paracentesis

Procedure Locations

What is Paracentesis?

What Is Paracentesis?

Paracentesis is a simple procedure that alleviates pain or pressure in the abdomen by removing excess fluid that has accumulated due to any number of reasons.

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Why would my physician recommend Paracentesis?

Your physician may recommend Paracentesis if:

  • you are experiencing belly pressure or pain and/or trouble breathing
  • an imaging test shows that there is a buildup of fluid in the belly (also called ascites).
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What do I need to do before my procedure?

You will be given detailed instructions by our staff before your procedure. You will need labs done prior to the procedure. Patients should notify staff if they are taking anticoagulants (blood thinners). Be sure to bring your insurance card, photo ID, list of current medications (dose and frequency) and any diagnostic testing results.

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What should I expect during a Paracentesis procedure?

Before your procedure, the area is thoroughly cleaned with an antiseptic or special soap and you will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area. Once numb, your Interventional Radiologist will use Ultrasound as a guide to gently insert a fine, flexible stylette attached to a drainage tube (catheter) into your abdomen where the built-up fluid will be removed. The entire procedure should take less than an hour. Once complete, a small bandage will be placed over the injection site, your vitals will be checked and you should be able to resume your normal activities.

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What will I feel during the Paracentesis?

You may feel some pressure while the fluid is being removed. Other than that, you should not feel much pain. In fact, once the fluid is removed, you should be relieved of any pain, bloating and difficulty breathing that you had because of the excess fluid.

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How do I schedule a Paracentesis procedure with Fairfax Vascular Center?

Before scheduling an appointment, you will need to get a referral from your physician. Once you have a referral, you can schedule an appointment by calling 703.698.4475 Monday through Friday 7am to 5pm.

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When are appointments offered for Paracentesis procedures?

Appointments are available at Fairfax Vascular Center Monday through Friday, 7am to 5pm. Learn more about this location.

The staff is professional, courteous, knowledgeable, and patient oriented always. The facility is clean, neat, with unexpected perks for patients, including coffee, lip balm, and soothing up-to-date music. The medical team greets patients with a smile, directs them to the procedure room, and explains the sequence of medical steps. The doctor and physician assistant offers warm blankets to the patients and monitors progress - always putting the patient's comfort first. The medical staff gives simple to understand discharge instructions, and explains what to do if complications arise. The administrative staff is extremely courteous, helpful, and will go the extra mile to explain the paperwork process. Overall, the entire process is perfect, a model of what other companies should strive for.

Bob A.

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