Ultrasound Thoracentesis has anyone had one done?

[suzanne]

Hubby has some fluid in his left lung and his Oncologist has set up appointment to have this test done to see what's causing the fluid buildup. He has no symptoms with his breathing, no coughing etc. But he is going thru Chemo for Non Hodgkins Lymphoma. Which it appears after yesterdays PET Scan is working. Hubby is now freaking out about having something else wrong. The Doctor said it may be nothing at all, but wants to do the test to be absolutely sure. He said that there was a small amount of fluid with the first PET Scan prior to the Chemo and that the 2nd PET Scan shows that the fluid amount has increased slightly. So has anyone had this done that can give us some insight on whats involved. Pain, time frame for test results, etc?

Thanks,

Suzanne

 

[kkan]

An ultrasound guided thoracentesis involves getting a needle about the size of a spaghetti noodle placed into the lung fluid. The needle has a plastic outer part and a metal inner part like an IV needle. The ultrasound is used to watch the needle go into the lung to avoid puncturing the lung. This procedure is the safest and least invasive way of getting fluid removed from the lungs. The main risk is collapse of the lung. This risk is very low in the hands of a skillful radiologist doctor. The collected fluid is analyzed in the lab with results in about 24-48 hours. They will check the fluid for cancer cells. The whole procedure should take between 15-30 minutes as an outpatient procedure once things get started. The pain involved is minimal and lasts about 5 seconds as you get poked with the needle. The skin is numbed-up beforehand.

Hope the info helps.

 

[JimJ]

I had this done about 10 days ago. The fluid is actually around the lung, not in the lung. They removed 1200 cc from me. A deadening shot is given in your back which is no worse than a typical blood test stick. That is the only thing you feel at all. I was sitting up on the side of a bed during the whole procedure which took about 10 minutes. If you turn your head you can watch the collection bag fill up with the fluid.

 

[suzanne]

Hubby said thank you both for your response. You really set his mind at ease. He was totally freaking out over what was going to happen.

I hope the results from yours was good news.

Suzanne