Biopsies & Drainage

Whether fluid needs to be removed for diagnosis or symptom relief, or a tissue sample collected to guide treatment, our team specializes in precise, image-guided biopsy and drainage procedures. These procedures are typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia.

Paracentesis (Abdominal Fluid Drainage)

Paracentesis is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity. This fluid buildup can cause discomfort, abdominal swelling, shortness of breath, and pressure, and is often related to conditions such as liver disease, cancer, or heart failure. Removing this fluid can ease symptoms and improve breathing and mobility.

• Preparation & Procedure: Depending on where the fluid is located, you maybe situated on your back or side. Ultrasound guidance is used to precisely locate the fluid. A thin, flexible catheter or needle is then gently inserted through the skin and into the fluid pocket. The fluid is then drained slowly into a sterile collection container. Depending on the amount of fluid, the procedure may take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes.

• Completion & Recovery: After the fluid has been removed, the catheter or needle is carefully taken out, and a small bandage is applied. Most patients can go home shortly after the procedure. Some mild soreness at the puncture site is normal. You may feel lighter and breathe easier almost immediately after drainage. Instructions will be provided to monitor for any signs of fluid reaccumulation or infection.

Thoracentesis (Pleural Fluid Drainage)

Thoracentesis is a minimally invasive procedure used to drain excess fluid from the space around the lungs. This fluid buildup can cause shortness of breath, chest pressure, and discomfort. Removing the fluid helps patients breathe more easily and improves lung function.

• Preparation & Procedure: While the patient sitting upright or slightly leaning forward, ultrasound guidance is used to precisely locate the fluid. Then, a thin needle or small catheter is gently inserted into the pleural space. The fluid is slowly drained into a sterile collection container. The amount of fluid removed varies, but the process typically takes 20 to 40 minutes.

• Completion & Recovery: After the fluid is drained, the needle or catheter is removed, and a small bandage is placed over the site. Most patients can go home shortly after the procedure. Breathing usually improves right away. Mild soreness at the puncture site is normal and typically resolves within a day or two. Written instructions will be provided to help you monitor your recovery.

Biopsy

A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue or cells from an organ, mass, or abnormal area in the body to help diagnose or rule out certain conditions. Using advanced image-guidance, we precisely target the area of concern, ensuring accuracy while minimizing discomfort. Most procedures are done under local anesthesia, and patients can return home the same day.

• Preparation & Procedure: Using real-time imaging for guidance, a thin, hollow biopsy needle is carefully advanced into the targeted area. A small tissue sample is then collected and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The exact approach depends on the location of the biopsy (e.g., liver, lung, lymph node, bone, kidney, or soft tissue). Most procedures take 15–30 minutes.

• Completion & Recovery: Once the sample is collected, the needle is removed and a small bandage is applied to the site. No stitches are usually needed. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, recovery is usually short. Mild tenderness or bruising at the site is normal and usually resolves quickly. Specific instructions will be provided depending on the type of biopsy performed.