Ultrasound-Guided Pleural and Ascitic Tapping in Pokhara
Ultrasound-guided diagnostic tapping removes a small sample of fluid from around the lung (pleural tap) or from the abdomen (ascitic tap) with a fine needle, using ultrasound to choose the safest site. The fluid is sent for tests to find the cause, such as infection, tuberculosis or cancer. KDRC in Pokhara performs it for Rs. 1,500.
Also called: USG Tapping, usg guided tapping, diagnostic tapping, pleural tapping, ascitic tapping, pleural tap
Price at KDRC: Rs. 1,500 · see rates
USG TappingKDRC · Pokhara- Duration
- Ultrasound-guided diagnostic tapping usually takes about 15 to 30…
- Reported by
- Consultant radiologists
- Location
- Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10
- Book
- 061553538 · 9856077433
- Diagnostic tapping takes a small sample of fluid from around the lung (pleural) or from the abdomen (ascitic).
- Ultrasound marks the safest site and makes the tap safer and more successful.
- The fluid is tested to find causes such as tuberculosis, infection, heart or liver disease or cancer.
- It is done under local anaesthetic and you usually go home the same day.
- At KDRC ultrasound-guided diagnostic tapping costs Rs. 1,500; laboratory tests are separate.
On this page (5 sections)
What is diagnostic tapping?
When fluid collects where it should not, testing a sample is the quickest way to find out why. A pleural tap (thoracentesis) samples fluid between the lung and the chest wall; an ascitic tap (paracentesis) samples fluid in the abdomen. Under local anaesthetic, a fine needle is passed through the skin into the fluid and a small amount is drawn into a syringe. Ultrasound shows exactly where the fluid is deepest and where the lung, liver, spleen and bowel are, which makes the procedure safer and more likely to succeed than tapping without imaging.
Why do doctors order a diagnostic tap?
- A new pleural effusion, to look for tuberculosis, infection, heart failure or cancer cells.
- New or unexplained ascites, for example in liver disease, tuberculosis or cancer.
- Suspected infection of existing fluid, such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhosis.
- A small or loculated collection that is hard to reach without imaging.
The fluid is typically sent for cell count, protein, glucose, LDH, ADA (for tuberculosis), Gram stain and culture, and cytology, according to your doctor's request.
How much does ultrasound-guided tapping cost in Pokhara?
At KDRC, ultrasound-guided diagnostic tapping costs Rs. 1,500. Laboratory tests on the fluid are charged separately by the laboratory. Rates are for Nepali citizens during regular service hours and may be revised. Call 061-553538 or 9856077433 (Viber) to confirm the price and preparation before your visit. See the full KDRC price list.
Understanding your results
The tap itself gives an immediate look at the fluid: clear straw-coloured, cloudy, blood-stained or pus-like. The laboratory results, which come separately, decide whether the fluid is a transudate (often from heart, liver or kidney disease) or an exudate (often from infection, tuberculosis or cancer), and may identify bacteria or abnormal cells. Your doctor combines these with your scans and blood tests to make the diagnosis.
Why choose KDRC for ultrasound-guided tapping in Pokhara?
- Consultant radiologists: studies are reported by our consultant radiologists, Dr. Bishworaj Bastakoti and Dr. Nawaraj Paudel, both NMC-registered radiologists since 2016 and members of the Nepal Radiologist Society. Meet them on our doctors page.
- HD ultrasound with colour Doppler and 3D/4D/5D volume imaging on the same system.
- Scan and sample in one sitting: the same radiologist who finds the fluid on chest or abdominal ultrasound guides the needle.
- Central location: Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10. Ultrasound services run any day of the week; call to confirm a time.
How to prepare
- Bring your doctor's request, recent blood tests and earlier scans.
- Tell staff about all medicines, especially blood thinners.
- Eat a light meal unless told otherwise.
- Come with someone who can accompany you home.
How long it takes
Ultrasound-guided diagnostic tapping usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes, followed by a short rest.
Price in Pokhara
| Test | Rate (NPR) |
|---|---|
| USG Guided Diagnostic Tapping | Rs. 1,500 |
*Rates are for Nepali citizens during regular service hours and may be revised.
What to expect at KDRC
Register with your doctor's request, recent blood tests (especially clotting and platelet counts if you have liver disease) and earlier scans, and tell staff about any blood thinners. The procedure, its benefits and small risks are explained and you sign a consent form. For a pleural tap you sit leaning forward on a pillow; for an ascitic tap you lie on your back. The radiologist scans to mark the safest point, cleans the skin and injects local anaesthetic, which stings briefly. A fine needle is then passed into the fluid and a sample is drawn off, which feels like pressure. The needle is removed and a small dressing applied. The procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you rest for a short while before going home. Tell staff at once if you feel breathless, faint or have chest pain.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get ultrasound-guided tapping in Pokhara?
KDRC at Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10 performs ultrasound-guided pleural and ascitic diagnostic tapping, done by consultant radiologists. Call 061-553538 or 9856077433 (Viber) to book with your doctor's request.
How much does ultrasound-guided tapping cost in Pokhara?
At KDRC, ultrasound-guided diagnostic tapping costs Rs. 1,500. Laboratory tests on the fluid are charged separately. Rates are for Nepali citizens during regular service hours and may be revised; call 061-553538 to confirm.
Is tapping painful?
The local anaesthetic stings for a few seconds, then the area goes numb. You may feel pressure while the sample is taken. Most people find it much easier than they expected.
What are the risks?
Serious complications are uncommon, especially with ultrasound guidance. Possible risks include bleeding, infection, and with a pleural tap, a small air leak around the lung (pneumothorax). Staff monitor you and explain warning signs before you leave.
Do I need to stop blood thinners?
Tell your doctor and our staff about every medicine. Your doctor decides whether blood thinners should be paused and may request clotting tests before the procedure.
Is all the fluid removed?
A diagnostic tap removes a small sample for testing. Removing a large volume to relieve breathlessness or abdominal swelling is a different procedure; ask your doctor which one you need.
Sources
- medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003420.htm
- medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003896.htm
- medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000086.htm
- medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000286.htm
This page is general health information reviewed by our radiologists. It is not a diagnosis — always follow your own doctor's advice. In an emergency, call our 24-hour ambulance or go to the nearest emergency department.
Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10, Kaski · 061553538 / 9856077433
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