What is the procedure called for the surgical puncture of the thoracic cavity to remove fluids?

The procedure known as thoracentesis involves the surgical puncture of the thoracic cavity, typically to aspirate fluid from the pleural space. This is a critical intervention used to diagnose and treat conditions that cause fluid accumulation, such as pleural effusion. During thoracentesis, a needle is inserted between the ribs into the pleural space, and excess fluid can be withdrawn using a syringe.

This procedure is essential in clinical settings, allowing healthcare providers to relieve pressure on the lungs, improve breathing, and obtain fluid samples for further analysis. By accurately spelling and understanding this term, one can demonstrate knowledge of important medical vocabulary related to thoracic procedures.

The other terms do not pertain to surgical procedures for fluid removal from the thoracic cavity. Thoracotomy refers to opening the chest surgically but does not specify the removal of fluid. Tinnitus is related to hearing and not to thoracic procedures, while urinalysis is a test of urine, making it unrelated to the thoracic cavity.