Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026
03:22
Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Published on: November 10, 2023
Open thoracotomy and decortication for chronic empyema
Rafael Andrade-Alegre1, Juan D Garisto, Salomón Zebede
1Thoracic Surgery Section, Santo Tomás Hospital, Panamá, Republic of Panamá. toravasc@cwpanama.net
Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
|December 9, 2008
Summary
Open thoracotomy and decortication for chronic empyema shows low morbidity and mortality. This traditional surgical approach offers promising long-term functional results for patients.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Surgical Outcomes
Background:
- Chronic empyema traditionally treated with thoracotomy and decortication.
- Videothoracoscopy shows potential for similar results with less morbidity.
- Evaluating the efficacy of open thoracotomy and decortication is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the experience with thoracotomy and decortication for chronic empyema.
- To evaluate the clinical outcomes of this surgical procedure.
- To provide a benchmark for comparison with alternative methods.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 33 patients with chronic empyema.
- Patients treated between March 1992 and June 2006.
- Diagnosis based on clinical signs, symptoms, and imaging.
Main Results:
- Average age 34 years, 81.8% male.
- Pneumonia (78.8%) and trauma (21.2%) were main etiologies.
- 9% complications, 0% mortality, 10-day average hospital stay, no recurrences.
Conclusions:
- Open thoracotomy and decortication is a safe procedure for chronic empyema.
- Low morbidity and mortality rates observed.
- Promising long-term functional outcomes support its continued use.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Pneumothorax-II
Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
01:26Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Thoracentesis(Thoracocentesis), commonly known as pleural tap, is a medical procedure where a 22 gauge needle is inserted into the pleural space, the area between the lung and chest wall. This procedure is commonly performed to diagnose or treat various respiratory disorders.
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
01:30Endoscopic Studies I: Bronchoscopy and Thoracoscopy
Endoscopy is a non-surgical medical technique used to examine a person's internal organs and vessels. This lesson will focus on two types of endoscopic studies: bronchoscopy and thoracoscopy.
Bronchoscopy
Description
Bronchoscopy is a procedure that involves direct visualization of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. A flexible fiber optic or rigid bronchoscope is used to carry out the procedure. The fiber-optic bronchoscope is more frequently used due to...
Bronchoscopy
Description
Bronchoscopy is a procedure that involves direct visualization of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. A flexible fiber optic or rigid bronchoscope is used to carry out the procedure. The fiber-optic bronchoscope is more frequently used due to...
01:26Flail Chest-II
Managing flail chest, a condition characterized by a segment of the chest wall moving independently from the rest of the thoracic cage, requires a comprehensive approach. It includes a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, a diagnostic evaluation to determine the extent of the injury, and the implementation of appropriate medical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
01:21Tracheostomy Decannulation
Tracheostomy decannulation is a significant milestone in the liberation of mechanically ventilated patients. Despite its importance, there is no universally accepted protocol for this procedure. This demands an evidence-based, individualized approach.
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
01:23Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Emphysema, a major phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by irreversible destruction of alveolar walls and permanent enlargement of distal airspaces. Unlike chronic bronchitis, which primarily affects the airways, emphysema predominantly involves the lung parenchyma, where structural damage leads to airflow limitation.PathophysiologyIt most commonly results from prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke and other toxic gases, particularly cigarette smoke.