USG-guided pleural fluid aspiration (thoracentesis) is a safe, bedside procedure to diagnose or relieve symptoms caused by pleural effusion. Using ultrasound improves accuracy, avoids complications like pneumothorax, and increases the diagnostic yield.
Diagnostic:
Unexplained pleural effusion (for cytology, biochemistry, microbiology)
Suspected malignancy, TB, infection
Therapeutic:
Dyspnea relief in large effusion
Empyema drainage (early stage)
Pre-procedure fluid removal (e.g. before biopsy)
Ultrasound improves safety and accuracy of pleural taps.
Always insert above the rib to avoid neurovascular bundle.
Do not exceed 1.5 L in a single therapeutic tap.
Document site, volume drained, complications, and post-procedure status.