Open-end catheter used for control of intractible ascites; placed freely into abdominal cavity and traverses subcutaneousl tissue to internal jugular vein to allow movement of ascites into intravascular space. Diuretics are given to facilitate renal excretion of fluid; palliative procedure only. Postprocedure replacement of ascites with lactated RingerÕs solution or saline decreases risk of coagulopathy; not indicated in candidates for liver transplantation.