Which procedure removes fluid from the pleural space?

• A. Thoracostomy
• B. Thoracentesis
• C. Pleural biopsy
• D. Mediastinoscopy

Answer: (B)

Removing fluid from the pleural space is accomplished with a thoracentesis. This procedure uses a needle to withdraw pleural fluid through the chest wall, usually between the ribs, providing immediate relief from effusion and often helping to determine the cause of the fluid buildup. The other procedures have different goals: a thoracostomy involves placing a chest tube for ongoing drainage of air or fluid, typically in more extensive or persistent cases; a pleural biopsy collects pleural tissue for pathology rather than removing fluid; and a mediastinoscopy examines the mediastinum and may sample lymph nodes, not the pleural space.