Post-Operative Care for Thoracentesis

Thoracentesis removes fluid from the space between the lung's outside lining and the chest wall. The test helps to find the cause of the fluid collection and can help relieve the symptoms caused by the fluid collection. Thoracentesis may be uncomfortable for a few hours after the procedure.

Contact your physician at 512-459-8753 if you notice any of the following signs:

• Shortness of breath
• Coughing up bloody phlegm
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Leaking or redness at the puncture site

Activities

• It is normal to feel tired the remainder of the day
• You may return to normal activity the day after the procedure

Diet
You may return to your normal diet