Techniques of pneumonectomy. Pneumonectomy through an empyema

The practical management of the patient with a destroyed lung in association with a preexisting empyema, based on considerable experiences, is discussed. Control of infection before proceeding with pneumonectomy by adequate drainage of the empyema and control of tuberculosis and pneumonia, particularly on the opposite side, is stressed. Pneumonectomy is undertaken through the empyema and usually in the intrapleural plane.