Centesis
Centesis procedures are important diagnostic and therapeutic tools in veterinary medicine, allowing for the removal of excess fluid or air from specific body cavities. They can relieve discomfort, improve breathing, aid in the diagnosis of underlying conditions, and guide subsequent treatment decisions
It is a procedure commonly performed in veterinary medicine to collect fluid or remove air from specific body cavities in animals. Following are descriptions of the three types of centesis most commonly performed:
- Thoracocentesis
- Pericardiocentesis
- Abdominocentesis
Thoracocentesis
This procedure involves the removal of fluid or air from the pleural space, which is the space between the lungs and the chest wall. It is typically performed to relieve respiratory distress caused by conditions such as pleural effusion (abnormal fluid accumulation), pneumothorax (air in the pleural space), or hemothorax (blood in the pleural space). While the patient is lying in a sternal position (on their belly), ultrasound guidance is used to carefully insert a needle or catheter into the chest cavity to drain the fluid or air from the chest, immediately relieving the pressure on the lungs and making the patient more comfortable.
Pericardiocentesis
This procedure involves the removal of fluid or blood from the pericardial sac, which is the protective membrane surrounding the heart. This procedure is often necessary in cases of pericardial effusion, a condition where fluid accumulates around the heart and compromises its function. While the patient is lying on their side, ultrasound guidance is used to carefully insert a needle or catheter through the chest wall, usually on the left side, to access the pericardial sac and drain the fluid, thus relieving pressure on the heart and providing immediate relief.
Abdominocentesis
This procedure involves the removal of fluid from the abdominal cavity. It is commonly performed to diagnose and manage conditions such as abdominal effusion or, ascites (abnormal fluid accumulation in the abdomen), and to obtain diagnostic samples. While the patient is lying on their side, ultrasound guidance is used to carefully insert a needle or catheter into the abdomen, to drain the fluid and/or collect samples for further analysis.
Each of these procedures is typically performed under sterile conditions and is performed by a trained veterinary professional. While not usually necessary, sedation or anesthesia may be recommended to ensure patient comfort, safety, and minimize stress. Close monitoring is essential during and after the procedure to detect any potential complications and provide appropriate post-procedural care.
Centesis procedures are important diagnostic and therapeutic tools in veterinary medicine, allowing for the removal of excess fluid or air from specific body cavities. This can relieve discomfort, improve breathing, aid in the diagnosis of underlying conditions, and guide subsequent treatment decisions.