What is the main purpose of an abdominal paracentesis?

The main purpose of an abdominal paracentesis is to remove fluid from the peritoneal cavity. This procedure is commonly performed to diagnose the cause of ascites, which is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. The fluid can be analyzed for various conditions such as infection, malignancy, or liver disease. By obtaining a sample of the fluid, healthcare providers can gain critical insights into the patient's condition, facilitating appropriate management and treatment.

In addition to diagnostic purposes, abdominal paracentesis can also be therapeutic by relieving symptoms associated with large volumes of fluid, such as abdominal distension or discomfort. The procedure is generally safe and helps to improve the patient’s quality of life.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of an abdominal paracentesis. For example, inserting medication into the abdomen is not a standard use of this procedure; assessing bowel function is more directly related to imaging studies or bowel examinations rather than fluid extraction; and relieving constipation typically involves different treatment modalities that do not involve paracentesis.