A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Comparing Pigtail Catheter and Chest Tube as the Initial Treatment for Pneumothorax

Small versus large-bore thoracostomy for traumatic hemothorax: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Traumatic hemothorax (HTX) is common, and while it is recommended to drain it with a tube thoracostomy, there is no consensus on the optimal catheter size. We performed a systematic review to test the hypothesis that small bore tube thoracostomy (SBTT) (≤14 F) is as effective as large-bore tube thoracostomy (LBTT) (≥20F) for the treatment of HTX.

METHODS

Pubmed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane review were searched from inception to November 2022 for randomized controlled trials or cohort studies that included adult trauma patients with HTX who received a tube thoracostomy. Data was extracted and Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklists were used for study appraisal. The primary outcome was failure rate, defined as incompletely drained or retained HTX requiring a second intervention. Cumulative analysis was performed with χ 2 test for dichotomous variables and an unpaired t-test for continuous variables. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model.

RESULTS

There were 2,008 articles screened, of which nine were included in the analysis. The studies included 1,847 patients (714 SBTT and 1,233 LBTT). The mean age of patients was 46 years, 75% were male, average ISS was 20, and 81% had blunt trauma. Failure rate was not significantly different between SBTT (17.8%) and LBTT (21.5%) ( p = 0.166). Additionally, there were no significant differences between SBTT vs. LBTT in mortality (2.9% vs. 6.1%, p = 0.062) or complication rate (12.3% vs. 12.5%, p = 0.941), however SBTT had significantly higher initial drainage volumes (753 vs. 398 mL, p < 0.001) and fewer tube days (4.3 vs. 6.2, p < 0.001). There are several limitations. Some studies did not report all the outcomes of interest, and many of the studies are subject to selection bias.

CONCLUSION

SBTT may be as effective as LBTT for the treatment of traumatic HTX.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Systematic Review/Meta-Analysis; Level IV.

Prehospital management of chest injuries in severely injured patients-a systematic review and clinical practice guideline update

PURPOSE

Our aim was to review and update the existing evidence-based and consensus-based recommendations for the management of chest injuries in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries in the prehospital setting. This guideline topic is part of the 2022 update of the German Guideline on the Treatment of Patients with Multiple and/or Severe Injuries.

METHODS

MEDLINE and Embase were systematically searched to May 2021. Further literature reports were obtained from clinical experts. Randomised controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, and comparative registry studies were included if they compared interventions for the detection and management of chest injuries in severely injured patients in the prehospital setting. We considered patient-relevant clinical outcomes such as mortality and diagnostic test accuracy. Risk of bias was assessed using NICE 2012 checklists. The evidence was synthesised narratively, and expert consensus was used to develop recommendations and determine their strength.

RESULTS

Two new studies were identified, both investigating the accuracy of in-flight ultrasound in the detection of pneumothorax. Two new recommendations were developed, one recommendation was modified. One of the two new recommendations and the modified recommendation address the use of ultrasound for detecting traumatic pneumothorax. One new good (clinical) practice point (GPP) recommends the use of an appropriate vented dressing in the management of open pneumothorax. Eleven recommendations were confirmed as unchanged because no new high-level evidence was found to support a change.

CONCLUSION

Some evidence suggests that ultrasound should be considered to identify pneumothorax in the prehospital setting. Otherwise, the recommendations from 2016 remained unchanged.

Pigtail Catheter versus Large Bore Chest Tube for the Management of Spontaneous Pneumothorax in Children: A Retrospective Study

INTRODUCTION

 Pigtail catheter (PGC) insertion due to spontaneous pneumothorax (SPT) in the pediatric population has increased markedly in the last years. However, only few studies examined its efficacy in terms of length of hospitalization, rate of complications, and especially pain management comparing to large bore catheter (LBC) insertion. We sought to compare analgetic drug consumption, efficacy, and complication rate between PGC and LBC in children with SPT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 This is a single-center retrospective study of pediatric patients that were admitted to the Schneider Children's Medical Center between 2013 and 2021 with a diagnosis of SPT. The following data were collected: type of drainage (PGC or LBC), duration of drainage, length of hospitalization, number of X-rays, complication rate, surgery during hospitalization, readmission due to SPT, and pain management.

RESULTS

 Seventeen PGC and 23 LBC were inserted in our study. No differences were noted in terms of hospitalization length, tube reposition or replacement, and recurrence of SPT between the groups. Patients with PGC underwent less X-rays comparing to the LBC group (3 X-rays vs. 5, median, p < 0.005). Oral analgesic use in terms of length of therapy was significantly lower in the PGC group than in the LBC group (1 vs. 3+ days, median, p < 0.05). There was no major complication in this cohort.

CONCLUSION

 PGC is an effective, safe, and less painful alternative compared with a LBC for the drainage of SPT in children.

Resident physician training in bedside pleural procedures: A one-year experience at a teaching hospital

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

This study aims to quantify bedside pleural procedures performed at a quaternary teaching hospital describing technical and epidemiological aspects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients who underwent invasive thoracic bedside procedures between March 2022 and February 2023.

RESULTS

463 chest tube insertions and 200 thoracenteses were performed during the study period. Most procedures were conducted by 1st-year Thoracic Surgery residents, with Ultrasound Guidance (USG). There was a notable preference for small-bore pigtail catheters, with a low rate of immediate complications.

CONCLUSION

Bedside thoracic procedures are commonly performed in current medical practice and are significant in surgical resident training. The utilization of pigtail catheters and point-of-care ultrasonography by surgical residents in pleural procedures is increasingly prevalent and demonstrates high safety.

Pneumothorax in acute respiratory distress syndrome on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support

INTRODUCTION

Pneumothorax is associated with poor prognosis in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We sought to examine the outcomes of patients who are supported on veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) and develop a pneumothorax.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all adult VV ECMO patients supported for ARDS between 8/2014-7/2020 at our institution, excluding patients with recent lung resection and trauma. Clinical outcomes were compared between patients with a pneumothorax to those without a pneumothorax.

RESULTS

Two hundred eighty patients with ARDS on VV ECMO were analyzed. Of those, 213 did not have a pneumothorax and 67 did. Patients with a pneumothorax had a longer duration of ECMO support (30 days [16-55] versus 12 [7-22], p < 0.001) and hospital length of stay (51 days [27-93] versus 29 [18-49], p < 0.001), and lower survival-to-discharge (58.2% versus 77.5%, p = 0.002) compared to patients without a pneumothorax. Controlling for age, BMI, sex, RESP score and pre-ECMO ventilator days, the odds ratio of survival-to-discharge was 0.41 (95% CI 0.22-0.78) in patients with a pneumothorax compared to those without. There was a lower incidence of significant bleeding when chest tubes were placed by proceduralist services (2.4% versus 16.2%, p = 0.03). Removal of the chest tube prior to ECMO decannulation compared to removal after decannulation was associated with need for replacement (14.3% versus 0%, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Patients who develop a pneumothorax and are supported with VV ECMO for ARDS have longer duration on ECMO and decreased survival. Further studies are needed to assess risk factors for development of pneumothorax in this patient population.

Chest Tube Size Selection: Evaluating Provider Practices, Treatment Efficacy, and Complications in Management of Thoracic Trauma

BACKGROUND

The standard for managing traumatic pneumothorax (PTX), hemothorax (HTX), and hemopneumothorax (HPTX) has historically been large-bore (LB) chest tubes (>20-Fr). Previous studies have shown equal efficacy of small-bore (SB) chest tubes (≤19-Fr) in draining PTX and HTX/HPTX. This study aimed to evaluate provider practice patterns, treatment efficacy, and complications related to the selection of chest tube sizes for patients with thoracic trauma.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed on adult patients who underwent tube thoracostomy for traumatic PTX, HTX, or HPTX at a Level 1 Trauma Center from January 2016 to December 2021. Comparison was made between SB and LB thoracostomy tubes. The primary outcome was indication for chest tube placement based on injury pattern. Secondary outcomes included retained hemothorax, insertion-related complications, and duration of chest tube placement. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Three hundred and forty-one patients were included and 297 (87.1%) received LB tubes. No significant differences were found between the groups concerning tube failure and insertion-related complications. LB tubes were more frequently placed in patients with penetrating MOI, higher average ISS, and higher average thoracic AIS. Patients who received LB chest tubes experienced a higher incidence of retained HTX.

DISCUSSION

In patients with thoracic trauma, both SB and LB chest tubes may be used for treatment. SB tubes are typically placed in nonemergent situations, and there is apparent provider bias for LB tubes. A future randomized clinical trial is needed to provide additional data on the usage of SB tubes in emergent situations.

Spontaneous Pneumothorax in a Healthy Young Woman: Discussion About Treatment Options

A spontaneous pneumothorax, a potentially life-threatening condition, is a disease process in which air enters the space between the visceral and parietal pleural of the lung, thus increasing the pressures in that space. It can be diagnosed by both physical exam and radiographic testing. In this case, we present a 21-year-old, otherwise healthy woman who presented with sudden, sharp shoulder pain and chest tightness and was diagnosed with her first, spontaneous pneumothorax. We further discuss the diagnosis and treatment options for a first-time spontaneous pneumothorax.

Perioperative outcomes of bi-pigtail catheter drainage strategy versus conventional chest tube after uniportal video-assisted thoracic lung surgery

OBJECTIVES

Chest tube (CT) drainage is a main cause of postoperative pain in lung surgery. Here, we introduced a novel drainage strategy with bi-pigtail catheters (PCs) and conducted a randomized controlled trial to compare with conventional CT drainage after uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery lung surgery.

METHODS

A single-centre, prospective, open-labelled, randomized controlled trial (ChiCTR2000035337) was conducted with a preplanned sample size of 396. The primary outcome was the numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) on the first postoperative day. Secondary outcomes included other indicators of postoperative pain, drainage volume, duration of drainage, postoperative hospital stay, incidence of postoperative complications, CT reinsertion and medical costs.

RESULTS

A total number of 396 patients were randomized between August 2020 and January 2021, 387 of whom were included in the final analysis. The baseline and clinical characteristics of the patients were well balanced between 2 groups. The NPRS on the first postoperative day was significantly lower in the PC group than in the CT group (2.40 ± 1.27 vs 3.02 ± 1.39, p < 0.001), as well as the second/third-day NPRS, the incidence of sudden severe pain (9/192, 4.7% vs 34/195, 17.4%, P < 0.001) and pain requiring intervention (19/192, 9.9% vs 46/195, 23.6%, P < 0.001). In addition, the medical cost in the PC group was lower (US$7809 ± 1646 vs US$8205 ± 1815, P = 0.025). Univariable and multivariable analyses revealed that the drainage strategy was the only factor influencing the incidence of pain requiring intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The drainage strategy with bi-PCs in patients undergoing uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery lung surgery alleviates postoperative pain with adequate safety and efficacy.

Reintervention Rate After Pigtail Catheter Insertion Compared to Surgical Chest Tubes

BACKGROUND

Prior studies suggest similar efficacy between large-bore chest tube (CT) placement and small-bore pigtail catheter (PC) placement for the treatment of pleural space processes. This study examined reintervention rates of CT and PC in patients with pneumothorax, hemothorax, and pleural effusion.

METHODS

This retrospective study examined patients from September 2015 through December 2020. Patients were identified using ICD codes for pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pleural effusion. Use of a pigtail catheter (≤14Fr) or surgical chest tube (≥20Fr) was noted. The primary outcome was overall reintervention rate within 30 days of tube insertion. Patients who died with a pleural drainage catheter in place, unrelated to complications from chest tube placement, were excluded.

RESULTS

There were 1032 total patients in the study: 706 CT patients and 326 PC patients. The PC group was older with more comorbidities and more likely to have effusion as the indication for pleural drainage. Patients with PC were 2.35 times more likely to have the tube replaced or repositioned (P < .0001), 1.77 times more likely to require any reintervention (P = .001) and 2.09 times more likely to remain in the hospital >14 days (P < .0001) compared to patients with CT.

CONCLUSION

PCs have a significantly higher reintervention rate compared to CT for the treatment of pneumothorax, hemothorax, and pleural effusion. Although PC are believed to cause less pain and tissue trauma, they do not necessarily drain the pleural space as well as CT. Decisions on which method of draining the chest should be made on a case-by-case basis.

Evaluation and Management of Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax in Adolescents and Young Adults: A Systematic Review From the APSA Outcomes & Evidence-Based Practice Committee

INTRODUCTION

Controversy exists in the optimal management of adolescent and young adult primary spontaneous pneumothorax. The American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) Outcomes and Evidence-Based Practice Committee performed a systematic review of the literature to develop evidence-based recommendations.

METHODS

Ovid MEDLINE, Elsevier Embase, EBSCOhost CINAHL, Elsevier Scopus, and Wiley Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were queried for literature related to spontaneous pneumothorax between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 2020, addressing (1) initial management, (2) advanced imaging, (3) timing of surgery, (4) operative technique, (5) management of contralateral side, and (6) management of recurrence. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine manuscripts were included. Initial management of adolescent and young adult primary spontaneous pneumothorax should be guided by symptoms and can include observation, aspiration, or tube thoracostomy. There is no evidence of benefit for cross-sectional imaging. Patients with ongoing air leak may benefit from early operative intervention within 24-48 h. A video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) approach with stapled blebectomy and pleural procedure should be considered. There is no evidence to support prophylactic management of the contralateral side. Recurrence after VATS can be treated with repeat VATS with intensification of pleural treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of adolescent and young adult primary spontaneous pneumothorax is varied. Best practices exist to optimize some aspects of care. Further prospective studies are needed to better determine optimal timing of operative intervention, the most effective operation, and management of recurrence after observation, tube thoracostomy, or operative intervention.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4.

TYPE OF STUDY

Systematic Review of Level 1-4 studies.

Development and content validation of the checklist for assessing placement of a small-bore chest tube (CAPS) for small-bore chest tube placement

Background

Small-bore chest tube (SBCT) placement via modified Seldinger technique is a commonly performed invasive procedure for treatment of pleural effusion and pneumothorax. When performed suboptimally, it may lead to serious complications. Validated checklists are central to teaching and assessing procedural skills and may result in improved health care quality. In this paper, we describe the development and content validation of a SBCT placement checklist.

Methods

A literature review across multiple medical databases and seminal textbooks was performed to identify all publications describing procedural steps involved in SBCT placement. No studies were identified that involved systematic development of a checklist for this purpose. After the first iteration of a comprehensive checklist (CAPS) based on literature review was developed, the modified Delphi technique involving a panel of nine multidisciplinary experts was used to modify it and establish its content validity.

Results

After four Delphi rounds, the mean expert-rated Likert score across all checklist items was 6.85 ± 0.68 (out of 7). The final, 31-item checklist had a high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.846) with 95% of the responses (by nine experts across 31 checklist items) being a numerical score of 6 or 7.

Conclusions

This study reports the development and content validity of a comprehensive checklist for teaching and assessing SBCT placement. For purposes of demonstrating construct validity, this checklist should next be studied in the simulation and clinical setting.

Not all Shock States Are Created Equal: A Review of the Diagnosis and Management of Septic, Hypovolemic, Cardiogenic, Obstructive, and Distributive Shock

Shock in the critically ill patient is common and associated with poor outcomes. Categories include distributive, hypovolemic, obstructive, and cardiogenic, of which distributive (and usually septic distributive) shock is by far the most common. Clinical history, physical examination, and hemodynamic assessments & monitoring help differentiate these states. Specific management necessitates interventions to correct the triggering etiology as well as ongoing resuscitation to maintain physiologic milieu. One shock state may convert to another and may have an undifferentiated presentation; therefore, continual re-assessment is essential. This review provides guidance for intensivists for management of all shock states based on available scientific evidence.

Outcomes of Pigtail Catheter Placement versus Chest Tube Placement in Adult Thoracic Trauma Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

A debate currently exists regarding the efficacy of pigtail catheters vs chest tubes in the management of thoracic trauma. This meta-analysis aims to compare the outcomes of pigtail catheters vs chest tubes in adult trauma patients with thoracic injuries.

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using PRISMA guidelines and registered with PROSPERO. PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, Ebsco, and ProQuest electronic databases were queried for studies comparing the use of pigtail catheters vs chest tubes in adult trauma patients from database inception to August 15th, 2022. The primary outcome was the failure rate of drainage tubes, defined as requiring a second tube placement or VATS, unresolved pneumothorax, hemothorax, or hemopneumothorax requiring additional intervention. Secondary outcomes were initial drainage output, ICU-LOS, and ventilator days.

RESULTS

A total of 7 studies satisfied eligibility criteria and were assessed in the meta-analysis. The pigtail group had higher initial output volumes vs the chest tube group, with a mean difference of 114.7 mL [95% CI (70.6 mL, 158.8 mL)]. Patients in the chest tube group also had a higher risk of requiring VATS vs the pigtail group, with a relative risk of 2.77 [95% CI (1.50, 5.11)].

CONCLUSIONS

In trauma patients, pigtail catheters rather than chest tubes are associated with higher initial output volume, reduced risk of VATS, and shorter tube duration. Considering the similar rates of failure, ventilator days, and ICU length-of-stay, pigtail catheters should be considered in the management of traumatic thoracic injuries.

STUDY TYPE

Systematic Review and meta-analysis.

Management of pneumothorax with 8.3-French Pigtail Catheter: description of the ultrasound-guided technique and case series

Spontaneous and traumatic pneumothorax are most often treated with chest tube (CT) thoracostomy. However, it appears that small-bore drainage systems have similar success rates with lower complications, pain, and discomfort for the patient. We present the description of the ultrasound-guided technique for pneumothorax drainage with an 8.3-French pigtail catheter (PC) in a case series of 10 patients.

Pressure-dependent persistent air leak in a patient with secondary spontaneous pneumothorax

An air leak lasting more than 5-7 days (persistent air leak, PAL) can complicate up to 40% of patients with secondary spontaneous pneumothorax. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the most common cause of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax, and early surgical intervention has been recommended for patients with PAL. Bullectomy or blebectomy with concomitant mechanical pleurodesis by medical thoracoscopy or video assisted thoracoscopic surgery is considered definitive therapy. Unfortunately, the perioperative course following lung resection can also be complicated by air leaks leading to worse clinical outcomes. Post lung resection air leak can be pressure independent or pressure dependent (also known as drainage-related air leak). The distinction between these two entities is crucial as the management varies drastically. Pleural manometry may play an important role in the early diagnosis of pressure-dependent PAL preventing further unnecessary surgical procedures from being performed.

Incidence and management of pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and subcutaneous emphysema in COVID-19

Objective

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic reached New York City in March 2020, leading to a state of emergency that affected many lives. Patients who contracted the disease presented with different phenotypes. Multiple reports have described the findings of computed tomography scans of these patients, several with pneumothoraces, pneumomediastinum, and subcutaneous emphysema. Our aim was to describe the incidence and management of pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and subcutaneous emphysema related to COVID-19 found on radiologic imaging.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted of all confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted between early March and mid-May to two hospitals in New York City. Patient demographics, radiological imaging, and clinical courses were documented.

Results

Between early March and mid-May, a total of 1866 patients were diagnosed with COVID-19 in the two hospitals included in the study, of which 386 were intubated. The majority of these patients were men (1090, 58.4%). The distribution of comorbidities included the following: hypertension (1006, 53.9%), diabetes (544, 29.6%), and underlying lung disease (376, 20.6%). Among the 386 intubated patients, 65 developed study-specific complications, for an overall incidence of 16.8%; 36 developed a pneumothorax, 2 developed pneumomediastinum, 1 had subcutaneous emphysema, and 26 had a combination of both. The mean time of invasive ventilation was 14 days (0-46, interquartile range = 6-19, median 11). The average of highest positive end expiratory pressure within 72 h of study complication was 11 (5-24) cmH20. The average of the highest peak inspiratory pressure within 72 h of complication was 35.3 (17-52) cmH2O. In non-Intubated patients, 9/1480 had spontaneous pneumothorax, for an overall incidence of 0.61 %.

Conclusion

Intubated patients with COVID-19 pneumonia are at high risk of pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and subcutaneous emphysema. These should be considered in differential diagnosis of shortness of breath or hypoxia in a patient with a new diagnosis of COVID-19 or worsening hemodynamics or respiratory failure in an intensive care unit setting.

Percutaneous Chest Tube for Pleural Effusion and Pneumothorax

Chest tubes are placed in the pleural space to evacuate abnormal fluid or air accumulations. Various types and sizes of chest tubes are available. Imaging including ultrasound, computed tomography, and fluoroscopy should be used to guide chest tube placement. Understanding the anatomy of the pleural space, along with the etiology and classification of pleural space disease, can help optimize chest tube management. This article will review the indications, contraindications, techniques, and postprocedure follow-up of chest tube placement as well as discuss the management and prevention of complications.

Impact of routine chest radiographs after removal of pigtail chest tubes placed by pediatric interventional radiology

BACKGROUND

Chest radiographs are commonly obtained after chest tube removal to assess for complications. The benefit of this practice in children is uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical impact of a routine chest radiograph following removal of chest tubes placed by pediatric interventional radiology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This single-center retrospective study evaluated 200 chest tube removals in 176 patients (median age: 4 years, interquartile range [IQR]: 1.2-12; median weight: 17.2 kg, IQR: 10.67-37.6), who had a chest tube placed and removed by pediatric interventional radiology over a 16-year period. A chest radiograph obtained on the day of removal was compared to the preceding study. For patients with imaging changes, medical records were reviewed to determine whether clinical actions occurred as a result. All records were reviewed for 7 days after tube removal or hospital discharge, whichever occurred first.

RESULTS

The most common indication for chest tube insertion was simple effusion (53%, 106/200) and the most common tube size was 10.2 French (38.7%, 81/209). The median tube dwell time was 8 days (IQR: 5-17). There was a median of 14 h (IQR: 7-33.5) between imaging before and after tube removal. Imaging changes occurred in 10% (n = 20/200) of chest tube removals. Three of 200 (1.5%) of these were symptomatic after removal and only 0.5% (1/200) required chest tube reinsertion. For the remaining removals resulting in chest radiograph changes, patients were asymptomatic and required no change in clinical management.

CONCLUSION

For chest tubes placed by pediatric interventional radiology, these findings do not support the practice of a routine chest radiograph after removal in asymptomatic children.

Effects of Preserving the Pulmonary Vagus Nerve Branches on Cough After Pneumonectomy During Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery

Background

Cough is one of the most common complications of early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). The vagus nerve plays an important role in pulmonary inflammation and the cough reflex. In this study, we attempted to reduce the incidence of postoperative chronic cough and other complications by preserving the pulmonary vagus nerve branches.

Patients and Methods

This study was a randomized controlled double-blinded trial of subjects and observers. A total of 158 NSCLC patients were enrolled. We randomly assigned 79 patients to Group A (pulmonary branch of vagus nerve preservation group) and 79 cases to Group B (conventional surgical treatment group). In the final analysis, 72 patients from Group A and 69 patients from Group B were included. The main outcome measure of the study was the occurrence of CAP or other postoperative complications within five weeks. This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (number NCT03921828).

Results

There was no significant difference in preoperative general clinical data between the two groups. No death during the perioperative period occurred in either of the two groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups in operation time, intraoperative bleeding, number of lymph nodes sent for examination, number of cases transferred to ICU after operation, postoperative catheterization time, or postoperative hospital stay (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in other pulmonary and cardiovascular complications between the two groups, including pulmonary infection (2.78% vs. 8.70%, P = 0.129), atelectasis (1.39% vs. 0%, P = 0.326), pleural effusion (2.78% vs. 1.45%, P = 0.585), persistent pulmonary leakage (2.78% vs. 2.90%, P = 0.965), arrhythmia (2.78% vs. 1.45%, P = 0.585), and heart failure (0% vs. 1.45%, P = 0.305). The incidence of CAP in Group A was significantly lower than that in Group B (13.89% vs. 30.43%, P = 0.018). The LCQ-MC scores in Group A were significantly higher than those in Group B at two and five weeks after operation (P<0.05). Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that the risk factors for postoperative CAP were surgical side (right lung), surgical lung lobe (upper lobe), preservation of pulmonary branch of the vagus nerve during operation, and duration of anesthesia.

Conclusions

Preserving the pulmonary vagus nerve branches during VATS in patients with stage IA1-2 NSCLC can reduce the incidence of postoperative CAP.

Comprehensive Review of Chest Tube Management: A Review

Importance

Thoracostomy, or chest tube placement, is used in a variety of clinical indications and can be lifesaving in certain circumstances. There have been developments and modifications to thoracostomy tubes, or chest tubes, over time, but they continue to be a staple in the thoracic surgeon's toolbox as well as adjacent specialties in medicine. This review will provide the nonexpert clinician a comprehensive understanding of the types of chest tubes, indications for their effective use, and key management details for ideal patient outcomes.

Observations

This review describes the types of chest tubes, indications for use, techniques for placement, common anatomical landmarks that are encountered with placement and management, and an overview of complications that may arise with tube thoracostomy. In addition, the future direction of chest tubes is explored, as well as the management of chest tubes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions and Relevance

Chest tube management is subjective, but the compilation of data can inform best practices and safe application to successfully manage the pleural space and ameliorate acquired pleural space disease.

Management of pneumothorax: an update

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Pneumothorax is a global health problem. To date, there is still significant variation in the management of pneumothorax. For the past few years, there have been significant developments in the outpatient management of both primary and secondary spontaneous pneumothorax (SSP). We will review the latest evidence for the management of nontraumatic pneumothorax (spontaneous and iatrogenic) to include pneumothorax associated with COVID-19 infection.

RECENT FINDINGS

Outpatient management of both primary and SSP may be safe and feasible.

SUMMARY

Outpatient management of both primary and SSP should be included in treatment options discussion with patients.

Conservative management of occult pneumothorax in mechanically ventilated patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the safety and effectiveness of conservative management versus prophylactic intercostal catheter (ICC) insertion for the management of occult pneumothoraces in mechanically ventilated patients.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Central, and other trial registries were searched. Eligible studies were critically appraised using standardized instruments. Meta-analysis was performed with mixed-methods logistic regression where appropriate and sensitivity analyses were performed with alternative statistical methods (Stata™ 15 or RevMan 5.3) or summarized in narrative. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies were analyzed separately.

RESULTS

Twelve studies with a total of 354 participants were included; three RCTs (178 participants) and nine cohort studies (176 participants). The majority of the included studies, particularly the cohort studies, were well conducted. Two of the RCTs were rated as low quality. Statistically significant differences were observed in the RCT analysis: ICC insertion (any reason) (odds ratio, 2.86; 95% confidence interval, 1.26-6.43, 2 RCTs) in favor of prophylactic ICC; ICC complications (odds ratio, 0.12; 95% confidence interval, 0.02-0.62, 2 RCTs) in favor of conservative management. Nonstatistically significant differences were observed for progression of pneumothorax, ICC insertion (progression to simple pneumothorax), and ICC insertion (nonpneumothorax reasons). Results of analyses showed high imprecision (wide confidence limits). Conservative management showed a low rate of tension pneumothorax (2.8%). Complications were higher in the ICC group (19.5% vs. 5.8%).

CONCLUSION

Available evidence suggests that conservative management is safe for the management of occult pneumothoraces in mechanically ventilated patients, especially when undergoing short-term (<4 days) ventilation. We recommend that patients undergoing mechanical ventilation for a procedure alone and patients suspected to be ventilated less than 4 days can be conservatively managed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Systematic review and meta-analysis, level III.

Pediatric pneumothorax: Case studies and review of current literature

Pneumothorax is an abnormal collection of air between the lung and chest wall. Pneumothorax management guidelines put forth by the American College of Chest Physicians, European Respiratory Society, and British Thoracic Society are specific to adult patients. These guidelines' utility has not been addressed in pediatric populations, which causes significant management variation in younger patients. Additionally, pneumothorax management ranges from conservative to surgical treatment, but these approaches, timelines, and effectiveness have not been validated in significant numbers of pediatric patients. Here, we present three cases of pediatric pneumothorax with variable clinical courses—one with persistent air leak despite chest tube presence who underwent VATS and surgical resection of apical blebs. In contrast, the other two cases were managed more conservatively. We reviewed the current literature for diagnostic and management of pediatric patients with pneumothorax, which underscores the need for guidelines specific to this population.

Management of Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax is a common medical condition encountered in a wide variety of clinical presentations, ranging from asymptomatic to life threatening. When symptomatic, it is important to remove air from the pleural space and provide re-expansion of the lung. Additionally, patients who experience a spontaneous pneumothorax are at high risk for recurrence, so treatment goals also include recurrence prevention. Several recent studies have evaluated less invasive management strategies for pneumothorax, including conservative or outpatient management. Future studies may help to identify who is greatest at risk for recurrence and direct earlier definitive management strategies, including thoracoscopic surgery, to those patients.

Traumatic Pneumothorax: A Review of Current Diagnostic Practices And Evolving Management

BACKGROUND

Pneumothorax (PTX) is defined as air in the pleural space and is classified as spontaneous or nonspontaneous (traumatic). Traumatic PTX is a common pathology identified in the emergency department. Traditional management calls for chest x-ray (CXR) diagnosis and large-bore tube thoracostomy, although recent literature supports the efficacy of lung ultrasound (US) and more conservative approaches. There is a paucity of cohesive literature on how to best manage the traumatic PTX.

OBJECTIVE OF THE REVIEW

This review aimed to describe current practices and future directions of traumatic PTX management.

DISCUSSION

Lung US has proven to be a potentially more useful tool in the detection of PTX in the trauma bay compared with CXR, and has the potential to become the new gold standard for diagnosing traumatic PTX. Computed tomography remains the ultimate gold standard, although in the setting of trauma, its utility lies more in confirming the presence and measuring the size of a PTX. The traditional mantra calling for large-bore chest tubes as first-line approaches to traumatic PTX is challenged by recent literature demonstrating pigtail catheters as equally efficacious alternatives. In patients with small or occult PTXs, even observation may be reasonable.

CONCLUSIONS

Modern management of the traumatic PTX is shifting toward use of US for diagnosis and more conservative management practices (smaller catheters or observation). Ultimately, this shift is favorable in reducing length of stay, development of complications, and pain in the trauma patient.

The Application of Pigtail Catheters in Postoperative Drainage of Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

Although minimally invasive surgery has been widely carried out at present, the postoperative pain of patients with lung cancer is still one of the difficult problems to solve in clinical practice.

OBJECTIVE

This study explored whether indwelling pigtail catheters after lung cancer surgery can help to reduce postoperative pain and promote the recovery of patients as soon as possible.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From June 2018 to June 2020, patients who underwent thoracoscopic radical resection of lung cancer in our hospital were randomly divided into 2 groups: the pigtail catheter group and the control group. We compared the postoperative time of thoracic catheter removal, postoperative pain score, proportion of postoperative pleural effusion, postoperative hospitalization time, and postoperative complications of the 2 groups.

RESULTS

A total of 1375 patients were enrolled, including 677 patients in the pigtail catheter group and 698 patients in the control group. Compared with the control group, the pigtail catheter group had an earlier time of thoracic catheter removal, lower postoperative pain score, lower proportion of pleural effusion diagnosed by postoperative chest radiograph, and shorter postoperative average hospital stay, but there was no significant difference in postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

The application of pigtail catheters after radical resection of lung cancer can reduce postoperative pain, accelerate the recovery of patients and shorten the postoperative hospital stay and is safe and reliable in clinical application.

[Ambulatory management of bilateral secondary spontaneous pneumothorax in palliative care]

INTRODUCTION

Secondary spontaneous pneumothoraces account for 35% of all pneumothoraces after the age of 50. Their management is still debated and can be challenging due to the underlying respiratory condition. In our observation, the use of small-bore chest tubes allowed prolonged ambulatory care in a palliative setting.

CASE REPORT

We report the case of a 54-year-old woman suffering from a leiomyosarcoma with multiple pulmonary metastases who had repeated episodes of pneumothorax, one of which was bilateral. Treatment involved the bilateral insertion of 8.5F pigtail catheters connected to Heimlich valves that allowed management as an outpatient. Recurrences were treated similarly, in association with oncological management, providing great additional benefits for patient comfort in this palliative context.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, this case report confirms the applicability of outpatient management for drained spontaneous secondary pneumothoraces, even bilateral, especially in a palliative-care setting.

A Dedicated Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Unit during a Respiratory Pandemic: Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Part II: Clinical Management

(1) Background: COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome (CARDS) has several distinctions from traditional acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); however, patients with refractory respiratory failure may still benefit from veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) support. We report our challenges caring for CARDS patients on VV-ECMO and alterations to traditional management strategies. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of our institutional strategies for managing patients with COVID-19 who required VV-ECMO in a dedicated airlock biocontainment unit (BCU), from March to June 2020. The data collected included the time course of admission, VV-ECMO run, ventilator length, hospital length of stay, and major events related to bleeding, such as pneumothorax and tracheostomy. The dispensation of sedation agents and trial therapies were obtained from institutional pharmacy tracking. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed. (3) Results: Forty COVID-19 patients on VV-ECMO were managed in the BCU during this period, from which 21 survived to discharge and 19 died. The criteria for ECMO initiation was altered for age, body mass index, and neurologic status/cardiac arrest. All cannulations were performed with a bedside ultrasound-guided percutaneous technique. Ventilator and ECMO management were routed in an ultra-lung protective approach, though varied based on clinical setting and provider experience. There was a high incidence of pneumothorax (n = 19). Thirty patients had bedside percutaneous tracheostomy, with more procedural-related bleeding complications than expected. A higher use of sedation was noted. The timing of decannulation was also altered, given the system constraints. A variety of trial therapies were utilized, and their effectiveness is yet to be determined. (4) Conclusions: Even in a high-volume ECMO center, there are challenges in caring for an expanded capacity of patients during a viral respiratory pandemic. Though institutional resources and expertise may vary, it is paramount to proceed with insightful planning, the recognition of challenges, and the dynamic application of lessons learned when facing a surge of critically ill patients.

New insights into spontaneous pneumothorax: A review

A spontaneous pneumothorax is a pneumothorax that does not arise from trauma or an iatrogenic cause. Although the traditional classification of either primary or secondary spontaneous pneumothorax based on the absence or presence of overt underlying lung disease is still widely used, it is now well recognised that primary spontaneous pneumothorax is associated with underlying pleuropulmonary disease. Current evidence indicates that computed tomography screening for underlying disease should be considered in patients who present with spontaneous pneumothorax. Recent evidence suggests that conservative management has similar recurrence rates, less complications and shorter hospital stay compared with invasive interventions, even in large primary spontaneous pneumothoraces of >50%. A more conservative approach which is based on clinical assessment rather than pneumothorax size can thus be followed during the acute management in selected stable patients. The purpose of this review is to revisit the aetiology of spontaneous pneumothorax, identify which patients should be investigated for secondary causes and to give an overview of the management strategies at initial presentation as well as secondary prevention.

The Natural History and Treatment of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Associated Pneumothorax-A 10-Year Single-Centre Experience

Background

Pneumothorax is a common complication of cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) procedures. There is a paucity of data on the natural history and management of a CIED-associated pneumothorax.

Methods

This is a single-centre retrospective study of all consecutive patients with a CIED-associated pneumothorax between March 2010 and March 2020. Pneumothorax size was determined on all chest x-rays after device implantation and before chest tube insertion (if placed). Changes in pneumothorax size on serial chest x-rays were reported. Clinical outcomes in patients with a severe-sized pneumothorax treated with a chest tube were compared with those treated conservatively.

Results

A total of 86 CIED-associated pneumothoraxes were identified, with 55 (63.9%) patients having a pneumothorax severe in size. Thirty-seven patients with a severe pneumothorax received a chest tube, whereas 18 were managed conservatively. Chest tube use was associated with a higher rate of admission to hospital (100% vs 63%, P = 0.02) for patients undergoing outpatient procedure, longer length of stay (6.3 ± 3.9 vs 2.7 ± 2.9 days, P = 0.04), but fewer chest x-rays (1.9 ± 0.7 vs 4.1 ± 2.5, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

An initial strategy of conservative management of a CIED-associated pneumothorax in select patients may be feasible and safe.

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax in children: A single institutional experience

BACKGROUND

The treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) remains controversial. We aimed to examine the role of chest computed tomography (CT), the advantages of pigtail catheter versus chest tube regarding duration of drainage or hospitalization period, and the impact of small PSP and surgical treatment on recurrence rate.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 109 children with PSP (20 years' period). Patients with recurrent and those with non-recurrent PSP were compared.

RESULTS

We recorded 183 episodes of PSP (45% recurrences), 89 patients (97%) were male, and the median age at presentation was 16 years. There were no significant differences between recurrence and non-recurrence PSP regarding age, gender, medical background, presentation symptoms, type of chest drain, median hospitalization length and median follow-up period. Recurrences were less frequent among patients who presented with small PSP and were treated conservatively (P = 0.029). PSP was almost always unilateral and the recurrence was observed ipsilateral in almost 80% of the cases. CT was more frequently used and blebs/bullae were more frequently found among patients with recurrent PSP. Pigtail use had no advantage in reducing hospitalization period and surgical procedures prevented recurrences.

CONCLUSION

The size of pneumothorax at presentation helps to predict recurrences. There are no differences regarding duration of drainage or hospitalization period in the use of pigtail compared to chest tube. CT helps evaluate findings in the lungs in recurrent cases of PSP and surgery prevents recurrences effectively.

Randomized Clinical Trial of 14-French (14F) Pigtail Catheters versus 28-32F Chest Tubes in the Management of Patients with Traumatic Hemothorax and Hemopneumothorax

Introduction

Traditional management of traumatic hemothorax/hemopneumothorax (HTX/HPTX) has been insertion of large-bore 32–40 French (Fr) chest tubes (CTs). Retrospective studies have shown 14Fr percutaneous pigtail catheters (PCs) are equally effective as CTs. Our aim was to compare effectiveness between PCs and CTs by performing the first randomized controlled trial (RCT). We hypothesize PCs work equally as well as CTs in management of traumatic HTX/HPTX.

Methods

Prospective RCT comparing 14Fr PCs to 28–32Fr CTs for management of traumatic HTX/HPTX from 07/2015 to 01/2018. We excluded patients requiring emergency tube placement or who refused. Primary outcome was failure rate defined as retained HTX or recurrent PTX requiring additional intervention. Secondary outcomes included initial output (IO), tube days and insertion perception experience (IPE) score on a scale of 1–5 (1 = tolerable experience, 5 = worst experience). Unpaired Student’s t-test, chi-square and Wilcoxon rank-sum test were utilized with significance set at P < 0.05.

Results

Forty-three patients were enrolled. Baseline characteristics between PC patients (N = 20) and CT patients (N = 23) were similar. Failure rates (10% PCs vs. 17% CTs, P = 0.49) between cohorts were similar. IO (median, 650 milliliters[ml]; interquartile range[IR], 375–1087; for PCs vs. 400 ml; IR, 240–700; for CTs, P = 0.06), and tube duration was similar, but PC patients reported lower IPE scores (median, 1, “I can tolerate it”; IR, 1–2) than CT patients (median, 3, “It was a bad experience”; IR, 3–4, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

In patients with traumatic HTX/HPTX, 14Fr PCs were equally as effective as 28–32Fr CTs with no significant difference in failure rates. PC patients, however, reported a better insertion experience.

www.ClinicalTrials.gov Registration ID: NCT02553434

Two-Year Experience of 14 French Pigtail Catheters Placed by Procedure-Focused Hospitalists

BACKGROUND

Recent studies show small-bore chest tubes, commonly 14 French pigtail catheters (PCs), are noninferior to large-bore chest tubes for treating various conditions, and they are associated with better patient comfort. The Medical College of Wisconsin implemented a bedside procedure service (BPS) that has been trained in the placement of PCs as an adjunct to its interventional radiology department.

METHODS

The data regarding consults for PC placement was collected by the BPS over a 2-year period. Primary outcomes reviewed were insertion-related complications (IRCs), unsuccessful attempts (UAs), and adverse outcomes (AOs) because the authors believe these represent the safety and effectiveness of the group. It was determined which services consulted the BPS for PC placement, the indications for consults, and a brief review of declined PC consults.

RESULTS

Of the 124 accepted consults, the service had 3 IRCs (2.4%), 2 UAs (1.6%), and 3 AOs (2.4%). A total of 18 consults were declined. The BPS was consulted by 12 services with 8 primary reasons for PC placement.

CONCLUSIONS

At high-volume, tertiary care centers, and with the support of cardiothoracic surgical and interventional radiology services, procedure-focused hospitalists can safely serve as an adjunct service for PC placement in selected hospitalized patients.

Drenaje percutáneo con catéter del neumotórax en pacientes con COVID–19

Introducción: La transmisión del SARS-CoV-2 principalmente se da por gotas y contacto cercano con las personas infectadas, pero los aerosoles parecen ser también una fuente de infección. El neumotórax espontáneo o secundario puede presentarse en pacientes con COVID-19, ayudado por patologías de base como la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica. Es necesario garantizar procedimientos seguros para los pacientes y buscar todas las medidas posibles para la protección del personal de la salud, por eso el drenaje de neumotórax con catéter pleural en lugar de sonda de toracostomía puede ser una de ellas. El objetivo de este estudio es presentar a los cirujanos una alternativa a la toracostomía tradicional, mediante la utilización de catéteres de menor diámetro, para la resolución de la ocupación pleural. Aspectos Técnicos: Se presenta el protocolo para inserción segura de un catéter pleural para el drenaje de neumotórax, mediante un sistema completamente cerrado, y se dan recomendaciones sobre el uso de filtros virales y solución viricida en el sistema de drenaje pleural conectado al catéter. Conclusión: El estado de pandemia por COVID-19 y el riesgo que representa para los profesionales de la salud la exposición a fuentes de transmisión durante procedimientos generadores de aerosoles, hace que se deban extremar las medidas para evitar el contagio.

Acupuncture induced pneumothorax: A case report

Various forms of alternative medicinal practices are gaining popularity. With this, there will be rise in the complications arising from these practices. Acupuncture is also such practice which though safe can rarely cause life-threatening complications.

Interpleural distance predicts persistent air leak after initial primary spontaneous pneumothorax

Background

Initial surgical intervention for a first episode of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) is controversial. However, if air leak persists after initial drainage, surgical treatment is recommended. Therefore, we investigated risk factors for persistent air leak (PAL) in patients with a first episode of PSP.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 122 patients with a first episode of PSP between January 2011 and April 2019. PAL was defined as air leak lasting 72 hours or longer. Early admission was defined hospital admission within 24 hours of symptom onset. Three methods were used to estimate pneumothorax size on chest X-rays taken at admission: interpleural distance, apex-cupola distance, and Light index.

Results

Among 122 patients, 55 developed PAL (PAL group) and 67 did not (non-PAL group). The size of pneumothorax was significantly larger in the PAL group than in the non-PAL group in all three methods of assessment (P<0.001). Early hospital admission was significantly associated with PAL (P=0.026). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the odds ratio for PAL per unit increase in pneumothorax size evaluated with the interpleural distance was 1.304 (P<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that interpleural distance at the hilum and early admission (P<0.001, P=0.008, respectively) were independent predictors of PAL in patients with a first episode of PSP.

Conclusions

In our study, we demonstrated that the interpleural distance at the hilum is a simple and effective predictor of PAL in patients with a first episode of PSP. Our data may help decision-making for initial surgical treatment in these patients.

An Updated Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis Of Randomized Trials On Topical Cyclosporin A For Dry-Eye Disease

Background/Aims

To evaluate the effects of topical cyclosporin A (CsA) and artificial tears (ATs) for treating patients with dry-eye disease (DED).

Methods

On January 25, 2019, five electronic databases and reference lists were searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing CsA with ATs among patients with DED. The search strategy had no restriction on language or time. Two authors extracted surgery, mean age, anesthesia for Schirmer’s test, tear-breakup time, Schirmer’s test score, fluorescein-staining score, ocular surface–disease index, and adverse events. Mean differences (MDs) were calculated for continuous outcomes and Peto ORs for dichotomous data with zero cells. Results were analyzed with 95% CIs in a random-effect model.

Results

Eleven RCTs recruiting 1,085 cases with DED were included. Pooled results showed that CsA had better tear-breakup time (MD 0.94, 95% CI 0.08–1.80), fluorescein-staining score (standardized MD −0.72, 95% CI −1.28 to −0.16), and ocular surface–disease index (MD −4.75, 95% CI −6.31 to −3.18) when compared to ATs. Although CsA had more adverse events than ATs (Peto OR 7.70, 95% CI 3.17–18.68), no serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

Overall, CsA is an effective option for treating patients with DED, yet our evidence indicated decreasing effects when CsA was combined with ATs. CsA may be worth suggesting to relatively older patients with DED. We anticipate further RCTs to explore the effects of treatment duration, optimal dosage, and efficacy of CsA in different DED etiology.

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Effects of Retzius sparing on robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy: a systematic review with meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To comprehensively evaluate the efficacy and safety of Retzius sparing (RS) for men undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RARP).

METHODS

We searched four electronic databases and reference lists of relevant studies for eligible research published before March 11, 2019. After quality assessment, eligible studies were synthesized for relevant outcomes, including positive surgical margin (PSM), continence, incontinence, complication, console time, and hospital stay.

RESULTS

Two randomized clinical trials and four observational studies were included in this study. Quantitative syntheses revealed significantly higher PSM rates in RS-RARP compared with conventional RARP (c-RARP) (odds ratio [OR] 1.68, p = 0.02). Furthermore, we found significantly higher PSM rates at the anterior site in RS-RARP compared with c-RARP (OR 4.34, p = 0.03) and significantly lower incontinence rates in RS-RARP in the first month (OR 0.30, p < 0.001) and 12th month (OR 0.25, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our syntheses revealed higher PSM rates in the RS-RARP group, especially in the anterior aspect. However, RS-RARP had superior functional outcome of urinary continence and lower console time than did c-RARP with equivalent complication rates. Thus, we suggest that operators pay more attention to making clear surgical margins if the lesion is in anterior prostate when performing RS-RARP.

Ensuring Basic Competence in Thoracentesis

BACKGROUND

Trocar pigtail catheter thoracentesis (TPCT) is a common procedure often performed by junior physicians. Simulation-based training may effectively train physicians in the procedure prior to performing it on patients. An assessment tool with solid validity evidence is necessary to ensure sufficient procedural competence.

OBJECTIVES

Our study objectives were (1) to collect evidence of validity for a newly developed pigtail catheter assessment tool (Thoracentesis Assessment Tool [ThorAT]) developed for the evaluation of TPCT performance and (2) to establish a pass/fail score for summative assessment.

METHODS

We assessed the validity evidence for the ThorAT using the recommended framework for validity by Messick. Thirty-four participants completed two consecutive procedures and their performance was assessed by two blinded, independent raters using the ThorAT. We compared performance scores to test whether the assessment tool was able to discern between the two groups, and a pass/fail score was established.

RESULTS

The assessment tool was able to discriminate between the two groups in terms of competence level. Experienced physicians received significantly higher test scores than novices in both the first and second procedure. A pass/fail score of 25.2 points was established, resulting in 4 (17%) passing novices and 1 (9%) failing experienced participant in the first procedure. In the second procedure 9 (39%) novices passed and 2 (18%) experienced participants failed.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a tool for summative assessment of competence in TPCT. Strong validity evidence was gathered from five sources of evidence. A simulation-based training program using the ThorAT could ensure competence before performing thoracentesis on patients.