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Updated: Jan 19, 2026
Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
Published on: June 20, 2020
Thoracoscopy in stage 3 empyema thoracis in children - A safe and feasible alternative to thoracotomy
Ramesh Santanakrishnan1, Govindappa Saroja Murali1, Deepak Javaregowda1
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health, South Hospital Complex, Dharmaram College Post, Bangalore - 560029, Karnataka, India.
Background:
Even though the role of thoracoscopy is well defined in Stage 2 empyema thoracis and is very popular, its role in the management of advanced empyema is still unclear. The technical difficulties and the potential complications are the principal reasons for the hesitancy in attempting video assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) in advanced stages.
Methods:
We prospectively studied the safety, feasibility and effectiveness of VATS for decortication in Stage 3 empyema.
Results:
In the 61 cases that we attempted VATS over the last 7 years, we could complete the procedure in 45 patients (73.77%). Four children among them required re-do procedure later for persistent problems. Conversion to thoracotomy was needed in 16 patients (26.23%). The post-operative hospital stay of patients who underwent primary VATS decortication was significantly less when compared to patients requiring conversion (p < 0.0001).
Conclusion:
Thoracoscopy is a safe, feasible and effective option even in advanced empyema thoracis and should be offered in centers with adequate expertise and set up.
Level Of Evidence:
Level II.
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