At WTVS, we offer ultrasound-guided thoracocentesis—a safe and minimally-invasive procedure used to remove or collect fluid or air from around your pet’s lungs. This procedure is often performed when dogs or cats are having trouble breathing or when imaging shows fluid or air buildup in the chest cavity.
What to Expect:
Your pet will be gently positioned and kept calm and comfortable throughout the procedure. Using real-time ultrasound guidance, our specialist identifies the safest location to insert a needle or small catheter into the chest cavity. This allows us to remove fluid or air while minimizing discomfort and risk. Most pets tolerate thoracocentesis very well. Sedation is often, but not always, utilized.
Why It’s Important:
Thoracocentesis helps your pet breathe more easily by relieving pressure around the lungs. The sample we collect can also provide valuable diagnostic information—helping us determine if the problem is due to infection, heart disease, cancer, trauma, or another condition. This information is essential for guiding the next steps in your pet’s care.
After the Procedure:
Once the fluid or air is removed, most pets experience immediate improvement in their breathing. Samples are submitted for laboratory testing.