Before You Tap That: Changes to Paracentesis Management Every Radiologist Should Know

Paracentesis is a deceivingly simple, ubiquitously performed procedure on the wards and in the interventional suites. Radiologists may be confused about the updated pre- and post-procedural management of patients with cirrhosis and ascites. We review the basics of paracentesis that any performing provider should know, including indications, absolute and relative contraindications, and methods. Updated guidelines for preprocedure laboratory tests, replacement of blood products, and use of albumin are discussed in detail and compared with the previous guidelines.