Thoracentesis: Maximum Pleural Fluid Removal & Safety Guidelines

Typically, no more than 1500 mL of pleural fluid should be removed during a single thoracentesis. Larger volumes may lead to complications such as hypotension or re-expansion pulmonary edema. In certain cases, up to 2000 mL may be removed, but this should be done cautiously and with close monitoring of the patient's vital signs.