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The objective of this study was to determine the safety and value of thoracentesis in an ICU, Thoracentesis is a safe procedure for critically ill patients, even those on mechanical ventilators, and usually confirms the suspected diagnosis. However, thoracentesis revealed an unexpected diagnosis that changed management in 12% of patients. Repeat or contralateral thoracentesis is indicated when either the clinical course is inconsistent or may represent a complication of the original diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comments on a paper by G.P. LeMense and S.A. Sahn which provides information concerning the safety and value of the diagnostic and therapeutic procedure, thoracentesis in medical intensive care unit patients. Description of thoracentesis; Factors associated with the discrepancies and complications of the procedure; Risk of pneumothorax from thoracentesis attempts without imaging guidance.