Final answer:
The process of aspirating fluids or air from the intrapleural space to aid lung expansion is called thoracentesis. It is vital for maintaining the negative pressure within the thoracic cavity, which is necessary for proper lung inflation during respiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Intrapleural Procedure
Sometimes, the physician inserts a large needle into the intrapleural space to aspirate, or withdraw, air, blood, and pus in a procedure called a thoracentesis. This medical intervention facilitates lung expansion by removing excess fluids or air that might be causing the lung to collapse, a condition known as pneumothorax or pleural effusion. During inhalation in humans and other mammals, expanding the thoracic cavity is crucial. Inspiratory muscles, including the diaphragm and the external intercostal muscles, contract to expand the chest wall outward, consequently decreasing intrapleural pressure and allowing air to be drawn into the airways.
Competing forces within the thorax help to form this negative intrapleural pressure. Lung elasticity and alveolar fluid surface tension pull the lungs inward. These forces are opposed by the surface tension within the pleural fluid and thoracic wall, ultimately creating a slight negative pressure that assists in lung inflation. The maintenance of the appropriate volume of pleural fluid is essential as it aids in the creation of negative intrapleural pressure. A thoracentesis can be required to correct imbalances and promote proper lung function.