TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - Chapter 65. Paracentesis A1 - Reichman, Eric F. Y1 - 2013 N1 - T2 - Emergency Medicine Procedures, 2e AB - The word ascites is derived from the Greek askos meaning “bag” or “sac.” Ascites, an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, has important implications diagnostically, therapeutically, and prognostically. Cirrhosis of the liver, which is usually related to alcoholism, accounts for 75% of cases of ascites; malignancy accounts for an additional 10% to 12%, and cardiac failure for another 5%. The remaining cases have a variety of etiologies.1 Unfortunately, the physical examination is not very reliable when it comes to detecting ascites, making paracentesis and ultrasound (US) important clinical tools.2 US-guided paracentesis has two key benefits. It not only facilitates performance of the procedure, but it also identifies patients in whom the procedure is not warranted or could potentially be harmful.3 SN - PB - The McGraw-Hill Companies CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/04/23 UR - accessemergencymedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=57706708 ER -