Thoracoscopy for pleural space disease

We reviewed the results of 40 consecutive patients who underwent thoracoscopy on the general thoracic surgery service at our institution. Pleural space disease was the indication for thoracoscopy in 34 patients (85%). In 18 patients (46%), a malignant tumor accounted for the pleural space disease. In all patients with malignant disease, the diagnosis was established by a single thoracoscopy. For patients with benign pleural space disease, the timing of the thoracoscopic intervention is important. Despite advances in the extended application of thoracoscopy, the diagnosis and management of pleural space disease continues to be the primary indication for the procedure.