Effect of Large Volume Paracentesis on Fatigue in Cirrhosis

The Effect of Large Volume Paracentesis on Fatigue in Cirrhosis

The purposeof this study is to determine the effect of a large volume paracentesis (procedure in whihc a catheter is placed to remove fluid from the abdomen) on the severity of fatigue i patients with cirrhosis (severe scarring of the liver) and large volume ascites (fluid in the abdomen).

Inclusion Criteria:

• ambulatory patient with cirrhosis
• baseline Cr <2
• ability to complete psychometric testing
• refractory ascites

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cr >2
• history of Gastrointestinal bleed
• history of infection
• history of renal failure