#Thoracentesis — #Pleural Tap

This is the procedure used to drain fluid from the space around the lungs (the pleural space).

• Removes fluid buildup called a pleural effusion
• Relieves pressure so the lungs can expand more easily
• Can also be used to test the fluid (infection, #cancer, etc.)

Chest Tube Management This narrative review evaluates existing research in chest tube placement to highlight best practices and safe application and to provide direction for future use.

and after reading that #POCUS #thoracentesis thread, then read this:
jamanetwork.com/journals/jam...

Great thread on a simple but highly effective procedure. More than once I’ve been consulted to admit a patient to the ICU who “needs to be intubated” where I’ve been able to prevent intubation with a good #thoracentesis.

Pleural effusion, how to find it with #Pocus #PocuSky , pitfalls, and how to perform a #Thoracentesis , #criticalcare #pulmonology #EmImCC #CritCareSky @pulmcrit.bsky.social @pulmtoilet.bsky.social @pulmpeeps.bsky.social

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We talked about #POCUS for paracentesis last week; so it seems appropriate today to talk about POCUS tips for #thoracentesis 🧵

This is another procedure that I can't believe used to be done blind! 🙈

#emimcc