Definition:
A thoracentesis is a medical procedure to remove fluid between the layers of the lung lining (the pleural space).
During a thoracentesis, a needle is inserted between the ribs and fluid is withdrawn into a tube. A thoracentesis may be done for diagnostic reasons; for example, to see if any cancer cells are present in the fluid, or for therapeutic reasons to relieve pressure or pain caused by excess fluid.
Examples:
Joe's doctor recommended he have a thoracentesis to see if any cancer cells were present in his pleural effusion.
