Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Published on: November 10, 2023
[Open pleural window at treatment of the advanced thoracic empyema: 20 high-risk patients' treatment experience]
V Jedlicka1, P Vlcek, L Veverková
1I. Chirurgická klinika LF MU a FN u sv. Anny v Brnĕ. vaclav.jedlicka@fnusa.cz
Unlabelled:
The aim of the retrospective clinical study was the analysis of the 20 high-risk patients operated in our department within years 2000-2008 by the modified Eloesser procedure for the serious thoracic empyema.
Material And Methods:
We have analyzed the data of the 17 men and 3 women. The most important objectives were the cause of the disease, type of procedure, perioperative mortality, length of stay and subsequent procedures. The underlying disease was the malignant intrathoracic disease in 40%, diabetes mellitus was found in 25%. The cause of empyema was pleuropneumonia in 45%, postresectional empyema occurred in 35%.
Results:
There were two perioperative deaths (10%), remaining patients were all dismissed in a stabilized condition the 22nd postoperative day at average. Six subsequent reconstructive procedures were performed. There was no early death for the postpneumonectomy empyema.
Conclusion:
In case of the serious pleural empyema in a high-risk patient is the modified Eloesser procedure safe and life saving surgical operation. The timing of the procedure and correct indication for surgery are essential.
Related Concept Videos
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:
Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
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...
Endoscopic Studies I: 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...
Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include:
