Diagnostic abdominal aspiration.

Aspiration of the abdominal cavity to withdraw fluid that collects in almost all cases of intra-abdominal disease that necessitates operation is a relatively easy and safe procedure that can help in deciding for or against operation in borderline cases. Diagnostic aid is given by observing the color, odor and cell content of the fluid. Inability to obtain fluid, although in general reassuring, cannot be trusted absolutely, for there may be severe disease without aspirable exudate. Sometimes the intestine may be punctured by the aspirating needle, which contaminates the aspirate but apparently does not bring about leakage of bowel content.