Hi, Thanks for writing in. Ascites is the term applied to collection of fluid in the abdominal cavity. In certain conditions as your father, there is excessive collection of fluid in the abdominal cavity. In smaller amounts such fluid can be allowed to get reabsorbed on its own. However when the fluid collection is high, the chances of it getting reabsorbed is less. For excessive ascitic fluid, doctors usually prescribe a diuretic pill and that helps to drain the fluid. In large collections, the medication might not give the adequate response and in this case ascitic tap has to be placed. This is a slightly thick needle inserted in to the anterior abdominal wall and connected to a tube. The fluid is allowed to slowly drain out over hours or two days. Sudden decompression of the fluid might lead to distress and should be avoided. Please do not worry.