Acta radiologica
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To determine the incidence, the operator's experience, and other variables that may influence the development of pneumothorax or re-expansion edema after ultrasound (US)-guided thoracocentesis. ⋯ US-guided thoracocentesis can be done equally as safely by residents as by senior radiologists. The safety and feasibility of the method are evident among mechanically ventilated intensive care patients. Our results do not support the routine use of post-thoracocentesis chest radiography.