Thoracentesis: Which Specialists Perform the Procedure?

Thoracentesis (pleural fluid aspiration) can be performed by various trained professionals, depending on the clinical setting and patient needs:

• Pulmonologists – Lung specialists; commonly perform the procedure.
• Interventional Radiologists – Use ultrasound/CT guidance for precision.
• Emergency Medicine Physicians – Perform in urgent/emergent settings.
• Critical Care Physicians (Intensivists) – Manage pleural effusions in ICU patients.
• Hospitalists – May perform during inpatient care.
• Respiratory Therapists – In some institutions, trained RTs assist or perform under protocol.

The specific provider varies by hospital, patient acuity, and resource availability. All operators must have appropriate training and credentialing.