What does the suffix "-centesis" mean?

The suffix "-centesis" refers specifically to a medical procedure involving puncturing a body cavity or organ to withdraw fluid. This is commonly used in various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, such as amniocentesis, which involves puncturing the amniotic sac to collect amniotic fluid for testing. In this context, the term emphasizes the action of puncturing as a means to access fluid for analysis or to relieve pressure. The correct choice highlights the functional aspect of this suffix in medical terminology, denoting the specific intent of a procedure rather than other unrelated actions.