Thoracentesis vs. Thoracocentesis — What's the Difference?

Thoracentesis , also known as thoracocentesis (from Greek θώραξ thōrax 'chest, thorax'—GEN thōrakos—and κέντησις kentēsis 'pricking, puncture'), pleural tap, needle thoracostomy, or needle decompression (often used term) is an invasive medical procedure to remove fluid or air from the pleural space for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. A cannula, or hollow needle, is carefully introduced into the thorax, generally after administration of local anesthesia.

Thoracentesis.

(surgery) A medical procedure involving needle drainage of air or fluid from the pleural space.

Removal of fluid from the chest by centesis for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes

The operation of puncturing the chest wall so as to let out liquids contained in the cavity of the chest.