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Why does the doctor tap on your stomach?

Normally, the abdominal cavity contains only a small amount of fluid. In certain conditions, large amounts of fluid can build up in this space. An abdominal tap can help diagnose the cause of fluid buildup or the presence of an infection. It may also be done to remove a large amount of fluid to reduce belly pain.

ucsfhealth.org - Abdominal tap - UCSF Health

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Definition

An abdominal tap is used to remove fluid from the area between the belly wall and the spine. This space is called the abdominal cavity.

Alternative Names

Peritoneal tap; Paracentesis; Ascites - abdominal tap; Cirrhosis - abdominal tap; Malignant ascites - abdominal tap

How the Test is Performed

This test may be done in a health care provider's office, treatment room, or hospital. The puncture site will be cleaned and shaved, if necessary. You then receive a local numbing medicine. The tap needle is inserted 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) into the abdomen. Sometimes, a small cut is made to help insert the needle. The fluid is pulled out into a syringe. The needle is removed. A dressing is placed on the puncture site. If a cut was made, one or two stitches may be used to close it. Sometimes, ultrasound is used to guide the needle. An ultrasound uses sound waves to make the image and not x-rays. It does not hurt.

There are 2 kinds of abdominal taps:

Diagnostic tap -- A small amount of fluid is taken and sent to the laboratory for testing. Large volume tap -- Several liters may be removed to relieve abdominal pain and fluid buildup.

How to Prepare for the Test

Let your provider know if you:

Have any allergies to medicines or numbing medicine

Are taking any medicines (including herbal remedies)

Have any bleeding problems

Might be pregnant

How the Test will Feel

You may feel a slight sting from the numbing medicine, or pressure as the needle is inserted. If a large amount of fluid is taken out, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded. Tell the provider if you feel dizzy or lightheaded.

Why the Test is Performed

Normal Results

Normally, there should be little or no fluid in the abdominal space.

What Abnormal Results Mean

An exam of abdominal fluid may show:

Cancer that has spread to the abdominal cavity ( most often cancer of the ovaries )

) Cirrhosis of the liver

Damaged bowel

Heart disease

Infection

Kidney disease

Pancreatic disease

Risks

There is a slight chance that the needle could puncture the bowel, bladder, or a blood vessel in the abdomen. If a large quantity of fluid is removed, there is a slight risk of lowered blood pressure and kidney problems. There is also a slight chance of infection.

References

Alarcon LH. Paracentesis and diagnostic peritoneal lavage. In: Vincent J-L, Abraham E, Moore FA, Kochanek PM, Fink MP, eds. Textbook of Critical Care. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap E10. Garcia-Tiso G. Cirrhosis and its sequelae. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 25th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 153. Mole DJ. Practical procedures and patient investigation. In: Garden JO, Parks RW, eds. Principles and Practice of Surgery. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 8. Runyon BA. Ascites and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology/Diagnosis/Management. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 93.

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About The Author

Sarah Lewis, PharmD Sarah Lewis is a pharmacist and a medical writer with over 25 years of experience in various areas of pharmacy practice. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy degree from West Virginia University and a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. She completed Pharmacy Practice Residency training at the University of Pittsburgh/VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.

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