<P> Once the presence of an excess fluid in the pleural cavity, or pleural effusion, is suspected and location of fluid is confirmed, a sample of fluid can be removed for testing . The procedure to remove fluid in the chest is called a diagnostic thoracentesis . The doctor inserts a small needle or a thin, hollow, plastic tube in the chest wall and withdraws fluid . </P> <P> Thoracentesis can be done in the doctor's office or at the hospital . Ultrasound is used to guide the needle to the fluid that is trapped in small pockets around the lungs . </P> <P> Thoracentesis usually does not cause serious complications . Generally, a chest x-ray is done after the procedure to evaluate the lungs . Possible complications of thoracentesis include the following: </P> <Ul> <Li> Bleeding and bruising where the needle went in . In rare cases, bleeding may occur in or around the lung . The doctor can use a chest tube to drain the blood . In some cases, surgery is needed . </Li> <Li> Infection where the needle went in </Li> <Li> Injury to the liver or spleen (in rare cases) </Li> <Li> Pain . </Li> <Li> Pneumothorax, or buildup of air in the pleural space, with a collapsed or partially collapsed lung . Sometimes air comes in through the needle or the needle makes a hole in the lung . Usually, a hole seals itself--but sometimes air builds up around the lung and makes it collapse . A chest tube removes the air and lets the lung expand again . </Li> </Ul>

Pain in right side of back when breathing in