TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - Chapter 19. Ultrasound for Paracentesis A1 - Hwang, James Q. A1 - Huang, Calvin A2 - Carmody, Kristin A. A2 - Moore, Christopher L. A2 - Feller-Kopman, David Y1 - 2011 N1 - T2 - Handbook of Critical Care and Emergency Ultrasound AB - Ascites is the accumulation of free fluid in the peritoneal cavity and is typically caused by portal hypertension due to hepatic failure. Other common causes of ascites include renal failure, congestive heart failure, infection, or malignancy. Ascites may be extremely uncomfortable when large amounts of fluid are present, and may be life threatening if it becomes infected or compromises respiratory efforts or venous return. Physical examination is not sensitive for ascites and cannot reliably determine the optimal location for drainage. Bedside ultrasound can reliably detect ascites and aid in the removal of fluid. SN - PB - The McGraw-Hill Companies CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/04/19 UR - accessanesthesiology.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=56301825 ER -