Abdominocentesis
Basic Information 
Equipment, Anesthesia
• Experienced horse handler with a properly applied nose twitch may be necessary for young, excited, or fractious patients
• Stocks, if available, are preferred for improved restraint and protection of operator
• Surgical scrub solution-impregnated gauze and alcohol gauze for aseptic prepping of skin
• 3 mL of lidocaine with 25-gauge needle for local anesthesia
• Teat cannula, bitch catheter, 3-inch 18-gauge spinal needle, or 1.5-inch 18-gauge needle
• Evacuated glass tube and several evacuated tubes containing EDTA
Preparation: Important Checkpoints
• Ultrasound the most dependent portion of abdomen to determine the best location for abdominocentesis. It is usually on right side of midline caudal to the xiphoid.
• Locate an area where there is free peritoneal fluid if possible, and avoid the spleen and large distended viscera.
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