Cirrhosis Support Group

I just wanted to note something that happened to me last time I was drained. My Dr. orders large volume paracentesis which means they're supposed to take all the fluid. When they had drained 5 liters they said I was done and nothing more was coming out. I could tell I wasn't done so I shifted positions and massaged my stomach and 3.5 more liters were drained. Those of you doing paracentesis, keep this in mind.

Barbo,

Really good point. The tech should have suggested you change position.It seems we must do most things ourselves.

Gail

Thanks for the note Barbo! There's no telling how many will benefit from your sharing. We appreciate you!

Bobbi

Hye, maybe you taught that tech and dr a new lesson and will help the next person.

I'll have Jerry try that on Fri when he goes again. Thanks Barbo!

Thanks for the info. I go in on Tuesday and am nervous because this will be my first and don't know what to expect. I have read that it is quite painful and have read that its a piece of cake. But I will keep in mind your tip...unless I'm running for the door by that point...lol. does paracentesis also drain the fluid in a edema patients feet, ankles and legs? Or is that a different thing altogether?

Post edited by: DEH70, at: 09/18/2012 04:06 AM

Post edited by: DEH70, at: 09/18/2012 04:11 AM

Does not address edema. It only removes the pockets of free fluid that have collected, not that which is diffused through the tissue. If you can deal with a dentist you can deal with this.

When I had my parecentesis procedure (I've only had it done once) three doctors couldn't find any fluid even though my belly was all puffed out and hard. They said I didn't have any fluid after an ultrasound. Well, a random young doc in ICU just took some TIME looking for it and feeling for it, repositioned the needle off to the side and drained 6 or 7 liters. I learned that I need to trust what I feel - even though I'm no doctor, it is my body.

Hi, I'm new here, but not new to this type of weight loss! -- have to joke! I had it done 3 times and now my diuretics seem to be working... I hope you don't have to go through it too many times! Good Luck! Scott