Etymed
paracentesis
Definition
surgical puncture performed beside or outside a structure, typically to remove fluid
Clinical context
A 65-year-old man with cirrhosis and ascites presents to the emergency department with severe abdominal distension and shortness of breath. Physical examination reveals shifting dullness and fluid wave. The physician performs a diagnostic paracentesis to remove ascitic fluid for analysis and to provide symptomatic relief.
Mnemonic
PARAcenteresis = Puncture Around Abdomen to Remove Ascites