Drainage Procedure
Paracentesis – Fast Relief & Insight for Abdominal Fluid
Ultrasound‑guided removal of ascites for symptom relief or diagnosis
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What Is Paracentesis?
A paracentesis is a minimally invasive procedure performed by Dr. Apo to drain excess fluid (ascites) from your abdomen and, if needed, analyze the fluid to find the cause.
Who Is It For?
Ideal for individuals experiencing:
- Ascites due to liver cirrhosis, chronic kidney disease, heart failure, cancer, or infection
- Symptoms like belly pressure, swelling, breathing difficulty, or unexplained abdominal pain
Key Benefits
Reduces abdominal discomfort, bloating, and shortness of breath
Enables fluid testing to diagnose infections, cancer, or other causes
Provides rapid symptom relief and outpatient convenience
Common Uses
Diagnostic: infection screening (e.g. spontaneous bacterial peritonitis), cancer detection, determining fluid causeTherapeutic: easing pressure from large-volume ascites (eg, removing 5 L+ of fluid)
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Local
Anesthesia
Outpatient
Setting
Same day
Recovery
Clinic Hours
Weekly Schedule
Monday
1:00 – 5:00 PMFe del Mundo Medical Center
Tuesday
2:00 – 5:00 PMOlistico Health Manila
Wednesday
12:00 NN – 2:00 PMSan Juan de Dios Hospital
Thursday
9:00 AM – 12:00 NNPhilippine General Hospital
Friday
12:00 NN – 2:00 PMSan Juan de Dios Hospital
Saturday
10:00 AM – 12:00 NNPhilippine General Hospital
3:00 – 4:00 PMOlistico Health Manila
Strictly by Appointment · No Walk-ins
Primary clinic
Olistico Health Manila
Unit 404, West East Center, 1332-1336 Taft Ave, Ermita, Manila
FAQs: Paracentesis
How do I prepare for paracentesis?
You’ll be asked about your medical history and medications. Please empty your bladder beforehand. You might need to pause blood thinners as advised by Dr. Apo.
How long does it take?
Typically 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how much fluid is removed
What happens during the procedure?
- You’ll receive local anesthesia in the puncture site and lie comfortably.
- Guided by ultrasound, Dr. Apo inserts a needle and catheter to gently drain fluid.
- You may feel mild pressure but no intense pain.
What happens after the procedure?
Post-procedure, a small bandage is applied. Most patients go home after observation—no hospital stay unless draining very large volumes