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Thoracentesis is a medical procedure used to remove fluid or air from the pleural space, which is the space between the lungs and the chest wall. The purpose of thoracentesis is to relieve symptoms such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as to diagnose and treat certain medical conditions.

Thoracentesis is generally considered a safe procedure, although it may carry some risks, including bleeding, infection, and lung injury. It is often performed as an outpatient procedure and can provide significant relief for patients with symptomatic fluid accumulation in the chest. The amount of fluid removed during thoracentesis depends on the patient's condition and the clinical judgment of the healthcare provider.