Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 4, 2026

Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Published on: November 10, 2023
Subtotal pleurectomy by video-assisted thoracic surgery for metastatic pleuritis
Kevin Meuris1, Marjan Hertoghs, Patrick Lauwers
1Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegen, Belgium.
Abstract:
Metastatic pleuritis can be a severely disabling condition. Recurrent pleural effusion often leads to severe shortness of breath. Treatment should consist of removal of the fluid as well as prevention of the re-accumulation of the pleural effusion. We describe the technique of subtotal pleurectomy by video-assisted thoracic surgery. We show several methods of stripping of the pleura as well as the application of talc. Subtotal parietal pleurectomy provides an effective treatment and control of recurrent effusion, but due to its invasive nature, it should be offered only to patients with a reasonable life expectancy.
Related Concept Videos
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
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...
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...
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Pleural Effusion I: Introduction
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's...

