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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
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Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Published on: November 10, 2023
Non-surgical treatment for post pneumonectomy empyema
A Ben-Nun1, M Soudack, L A Best
1Department of General Thoracic Surgery, 8th floor, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa 31096, Israel. mangn@netmedia.net.il
Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
|August 3, 2007
Summary
This study presents a safe alternative treatment for postpneumonectomy empyema using continuous soft tube thoracostomy, intrapleural fibrinolysis, and antibiotics. This method is effective for patients unsuitable for the Claggett procedure.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Postpneumonectomy empyema is a serious complication following lung removal surgery.
- The Claggett procedure is a common surgical approach but is not suitable for all patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of continuous soft tube thoracostomy with intrapleural fibrinolysis and antibiotics as an alternative treatment for postpneumonectomy empyema.
- To identify a treatment option for patients with postpneumonectomy empyema who are not candidates for the Claggett procedure.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for eight patients treated between 1990 and 2002.
- Treatment involved continuous soft tube thoracostomy, intrapleural fibrinolysis, and antibiotic administration.
Main Results:
- The procedure was well-tolerated with no significant complications during treatment.
- One patient died from metastatic disease nine months post-treatment.
- The remaining seven patients completed treatment successfully with no empyema recurrence.
Conclusions:
- Continuous soft tube drainage combined with intrapleural fibrinolysis and antibiotics offers a safe and effective treatment for postpneumonectomy empyema.
- This approach provides a viable alternative for patients unsuitable for surgical management like the Claggett procedure.
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