[Malignant pleural effusions: a description of an alternative method of external drainage with a fine-caliber catheter].
We describe the results of treating symptomatic pleural effusion by implanting a Pleurocath-type small-caliber catheter connected to a three-way valve for external evacuation. The method was used in 6 patients with advanced neoplastic disease and dyspnea related to pleural effusion that could not be treated with the usual methods of pleurodesis. Dyspnea disappeared or was significantly relieved in 5 of the 6 patients, such that follow-up could be continued on an outpatient basis for 3. Catheters remained in position for periods of time ranging from 14 days to 10 months. Survival varied from 14 days to 14 months. The only important complication was one case of infection in the area of catheter insertion. We describe the extremely simple technique used and the results that have encouraged us to continue using the method in cases that meet the necessary conditions.
Vázquez-Pelillo
J C
JC
Servicio de Cirugía Torácica, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid.
Peña González
E
E
León Atance
P
P
García Fontán
E
E
de Alvaro Liaño
J
J
Folqué Gómez
E
E
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002404:Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D004322:Drainage / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016066:Pleural Effusion, Malignant / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D013997:Time Factors