Abstract: Objective To evaluate the effects of therapeutic paracentesis by percutaneous placement of central venous catheter (CVC) on renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in hepatic cirrhosis patients with refractory ascites.Methods 21 patients with hepatic cirrhosis and refractory ascites were admitted into this study.The patients were detained CVC in the abdominal cavity, performed serial large-volume paracentesis and given the liver protective and combined supportive treatment.The effects on RAAS, weight, abdomen circumference, urinary volume and renal function were evaluated.Results The symptoms of abdominal distension, loss of appetite, dyspnea were complete or partial remission in all patients.The weight and abdomen circumference after theapy were significantly lower than before therapy, and the concentration of RAAS in plasma were decreased significantly, however, the renal function was partial recuperative.No serious complication happened, but with 3 cases of unfluent drainage and 2 cases of persistent leakage around the catheter.Conclusions Percutaneous placement of CVC combined supportive treatment, which could eliminate the ascites and suppress the activity of RAAS, was safe, simple, and effective method for palliative drainage of patients with hepatic cirrhosis and refractory ascites.