Thoracoscopic management of malignant pleural effusion

The diagnosis and management of pleural effusions have been well recognized over the years as indications for thoracoscopy. New technology has enhanced its appeal. Video-assisted thoracic surgery is a well-tolerated procedure that affords excellent visualization of the entire pleural surface. Directed biopsies of suspicious areas lead to a high diagnostic yield, particularly when compared with percutaneous biopsies. New algorithms reflect this fact. Video-assisted thoracic surgery now follows diagnostic thoracentesis as the next step in the evaluation of effusion suspicious for malignancy. Video-assisted thoracic surgery can also aid the lysis of adhesions, which might limit the effectiveness of surgical procedures to produce pleurodesis, and is an ideal tool for therapeutic management. It may be performed with general anesthesia or local anesthesia and sedation. All of the pleural fluid can be removed and this facilitates the procedure. With minimal instrumentation, pleurodesis may be performed by pleurectomy, mechanical abrasion, or talc sclerosis. Visually directed placement of chest tubes ensures adequate reexpansion of the lung.