Injections, Drips & Treatments
About this service
Diagnostic abdominal fluid drainage in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic, also known as diagnostic paracentesis, draws a small sample of fluid from the abdomen with a fine needle to help investigate the cause of abdominal swelling. This procedure helps your doctor understand what is causing fluid to build up in the abdomen, which can happen for a number of different reasons. It is performed in our rooms with the area cleaned and numbed beforehand, and the fluid sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis afterwards.
Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and advise on any further tests or treatment needed. Book a consultation if you have unexplained abdominal swelling.
What to expect
- A consultation and examination to assess the abdominal swelling
- The skin is cleaned and numbed before the needle is inserted
- A small sample of fluid is carefully drawn from the abdomen
- The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis
- Your doctor discusses results and next steps at a follow-up
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Unexplained abdominal swelling or distension
- A doctor's recommendation to investigate abdominal fluid
- Discomfort or tightness in the abdomen
- Monitoring a known condition causing fluid build-up
- Wanting the cause of abdominal swelling properly diagnosed
Frequently asked questions
What can a sample of abdominal fluid show?
The laboratory checks the fluid for infection, protein levels and abnormal cells. This helps your doctor tell whether the swelling is linked to the liver, the heart, an infection or another cause.
How long do results take after an abdominal tap?
Most laboratory results come back within a few days. Your doctor will arrange a follow-up in our rooms to go through them and plan any further tests or treatment.
Do I need to prepare for diagnostic abdominal fluid drainage?
Usually only an empty bladder before you come in. Tell your doctor about any blood thinners you take, as this may affect the timing of the procedure.
Ready to book your diagnostic abdominal fluid drainage?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.