What is tapping?

Tapping — also called paracentesis — is a procedure to remove excess fluid that has built up in the abdomen (a condition called ascites). Dr. Chandak uses ultrasound guidance to locate the fluid precisely and perform the procedure safely.

Why is tapping done?

  • To relieve discomfort, bloating, or breathlessness caused by fluid build-up
  • To send a sample of the fluid for lab testing, to help find out what's causing the build-up

Fluid build-up in the abdomen is often related to liver conditions such as alcohol-related liver disease or advanced fatty liver disease, though it can have other causes too. Dr. Gattani and Dr. Chandak often work together on these cases — Dr. Gattani managing the underlying liver condition, and Dr. Chandak performing the ultrasound-guided procedure itself.

How to prepare

  • Little preparation is usually needed
  • You may be asked to empty your bladder just before the procedure
  • Tell the doctor about any blood-thinning medicines you take

What happens during the procedure

Using ultrasound to guide the exact spot, the skin is numbed with local anesthesia, and a thin needle is used to drain the fluid. Depending on how much fluid needs to be removed, this can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes.

What happens after the procedure

You'll rest briefly at the clinic while the puncture site is monitored. Mild soreness at the site is common. If fluid was sent for testing, results are usually available within a few days.

Is tapping safe?

Yes, ultrasound-guided tapping is a routine and generally safe procedure. As with any needle-based procedure, there are small risks, including mild bleeding, infection, or fluid leakage at the puncture site — Dr. Chandak will discuss this with you beforehand.

Frequently asked questions

The area is numbed with local anesthesia beforehand, so you should feel pressure rather than sharp pain.

This is most commonly related to liver disease, though it can have other causes. Testing the fluid helps identify the exact reason.

This depends on the underlying cause. Some patients need it periodically while the underlying condition is being treated.

At Cura Imaging & Gastro Clinic, yes — ultrasound guidance improves both safety and accuracy in locating the fluid.