Categories: Gastrointestinal

Ascites Fluid Wave Test: Why a hand on the abdomen?

Ascites: Defined as free fluid in the abdominal cavity. The fluid wave is a very specific test (82-92%) for detecting ascites. It is performed by having the patient (or assistant) place the medial side of their hands onto the abdominal midline. The examiner then taps the left or right flank sharply while using the opposite fingertips to try to detect the impulse on the contra-lateral flank.

WHY THE HANDS ON THE STOMACH? To stop the transmission of the impulse wave through subcutaneous fat.

REFERENCES

  1. John W. Williams Jr, MD; David L. Simel, MD, MHS. Does This Patient Have Ascites?. JAMA. 1992;267(19):2645-2648. doi:10.1001/jama.1992.03480190087038.Text Size: A A A
Get Medical Pearls directly to your inbox every week!
Weekly posts with high yield medical knowledge, directly to your mailbox!
Dr. C Humphreys

Internal Medicine

Recent Posts

Older Age and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Mechanism

Older age is recognized as a risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea.[1] But why? Suspected…

1 month ago

How does Weight Affect Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Mechanism

Being overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2)/Obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) is one of the most…

1 month ago

Nocturia and OSA: Mechanism

Nocturia is a common symptom associated with obstructive sleep apnea. [1] Img Cred: Am J…

1 year ago

ASD vs. VSD Murmur Difference

ASD (Atrial Septal Defect) Wide, Fixed split S2 (in contrast to the normal variation in…

1 year ago

Mechanism of a Mixed Apnea

Mixed apneas are characterized by absent respiratory effort and airflow in the first section of…

2 years ago

How Does Hypothyroidism Cause Hypoventilation?

Although rare, the differential diagnosis of hypoventilation and hypercapnia respiratory failure includes hypothyroidism. It is…

2 years ago

This website uses cookies.