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Osman KT, Nguyen JT, Patel AS, Qamar AA. The clinician's dilemma with spontaneous bacterial empyema. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2023; 22:188-192. [PMID: 38026122 PMCID: PMC10653581 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karim T. Osman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julie T. Nguyen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases & Critical Care Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Avignat S. Patel
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amir A. Qamar
- Division of Gastroenterology, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Diseases, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
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2
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Kanne JP, Rother MDM. Pneumothorax: Imaging Diagnosis and Etiology. Semin Roentgenol 2023; 58:440-453. [PMID: 37973273 DOI: 10.1053/j.ro.2023.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey P Kanne
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI.
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Siddiqui S, Falak U. Pneumothorax Ex-vacuo or Trapped Lungs Appearing as Iatrogenic Hydropneumothorax: A Case Report and Review of Non-expandable Lungs (NEL). Cureus 2023; 15:e41814. [PMID: 37575695 PMCID: PMC10422936 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-expandable lungs are usually diagnosed after a pleural intervention. It can be challenging to differentiate between an iatrogenic pneumothorax and a new diagnosis of non-expandable lungs following a pleural intervention. The correct assessment can save the patient from undergoing the insertion of an unnecessary intercostal chest drain, which often leads to catastrophe. Suspicion and early evaluation remain the keys, particularly in patients with chronic effusion. Often the diagnosis is reached through a combination of history, pleural fluid analysis, and radiological features such as the absence of a straight line in the chest X-ray, which is commonly found in a true hydropneumothorax, along with computed tomographic evidence of chronic effusion with thick pleural rind. Although not routinely performed, pleural manometry can confirm the diagnosis of trapped lungs. We present our case, where a 64-year-old woman with metastatic oesophageal cancer developed a right-sided effusion. The post-procedure chest X-ray following therapeutic aspiration of the pleural fluid gave an impression of iatrogenic hydropneumothorax, which on further careful assessment revealed a rather pneumothorax ex-vacuo along with effusion due to underlying trapped lungs. We present a review of non-expandable lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saquib Siddiqui
- Respiratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Gateshead, Newcastle Upon Tyne, GBR
| | - Umair Falak
- Respiratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Gateshead, Newcastle Upon Tyne, GBR
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Syed F, Pakala R, Alam MDU, Singh GP, Poddar V. Pneumothorax Ex Vacuo: A Rare Complication of PleurX Catheter Insertion. Cureus 2023; 15:e41882. [PMID: 37581142 PMCID: PMC10423620 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Pneumothorax ex vacuo (PEV) is a rare type of pneumothorax that occurs when air enters the pleural space in the chest cavity due to an increase in the volume of the lungs or a reduction in the volume of the surrounding lung tissue. Unlike a typical pneumothorax, which involves the collapse of the lung due to air accumulation, pneumothorax ex vacuo occurs when the lung itself cannot expand properly, often due to underlying lung disease or conditions such as pulmonary fibrosis or atelectasis. The mechanism is compensatory to the lung entrapment. PleurX catheter (Pleur-Evac; Teleflex, Wayne, PA, USA) insertion can cause pneumothorax ex vacuo in patients with cancer histories, as shown in this case. It is important to understand if pneumothorax ex vacuo needs observation or quick intervention. Pleural manometry is also an important part of diagnosis of pneumothorax ex vacuo and we discuss that in our case report.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Syed
- Internal Medicine, Howard University Hospital, Washington DC, USA
| | - Ramya Pakala
- Internal Medicine, Howard University Hospital, Washington DC, USA
| | - Md Didar Ul Alam
- Pulmonary and Critical Care, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington DC, USA
| | - Gagan P Singh
- Internal Medicine, Howard University Hospital, Washington DC, USA
| | - Vishal Poddar
- Pulmonary and Critical Care, Howard University Hospital, Washington DC, USA
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Kim CH, Park JE, Cha JG, Park J, Choi SH, Seo H, Yoo SS, Lee SY, Cha SI, Park JY, Lim JK, Lee J. Clinical predictors and outcomes of non-expandable lung following percutaneous catheter drainage in lung cancer patients with malignant pleural effusion. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e34134. [PMID: 37390258 PMCID: PMC10313309 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000034134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-expandable lung (NEL) often occurs during pleural fluid drainage in patients with malignant pleural effusion (MPE). However, data regarding the predictors and prognostic impact of NEL on primary lung cancer patients with MPE receiving pleural fluid drainage, compared to malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), are limited. This study was aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of lung cancer patients with MPE developing NEL following ultrasonography (USG)-guided percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) and compare the clinical outcomes between those with and without NEL. Clinical, laboratory, pleural fluid, and radiologic data and survival outcomes of lung cancer patients with MPE undergoing USG-guided PCD were retrospectively reviewed and compared between those with and without NEL. Among 121 primary lung cancer patients with MPE undergoing PCD, NEL occurred in 25 (21%). Higher pleural fluid lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels and presence of endobronchial lesions were associated with development of NEL. The median time to catheter removal was significantly extended in those with NEL compared to those without (P = .014). NEL was significantly associated with poor survival outcome in lung cancer patients with MPE undergoing PCD, along with poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS), the presence of distant metastasis, higher serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and not receiving chemotherapy. NEL developed in one-fifth of lung cancer patients undergoing PCD for MPE and was associated with high pleural fluid LDH levels and the presence of endobronchial lesions. NEL may negatively affect overall survival in lung cancer patients with MPE receiving PCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Ho Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Eun Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Guen Cha
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongmin Park
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Ha Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewon Seo
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Soo Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin Yup Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Ick Cha
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Yong Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Kwang Lim
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehee Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
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Yoshino R, Yoshida N, Yasuda S, Ito A, Nakatsubo M, Kitada M. A Case of Pneumothorax Ex Vacuo Associated with COVID-19. Medicina (B Aires) 2023; 59:medicina59040709. [PMID: 37109667 PMCID: PMC10142456 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59040709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pneumothorax is a known complication of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The concept of pneumothorax ex vacuo has also been proposed to describe pneumothorax that occurs after malignant pleural effusion drainage. Herein, we present the case of a 67-year-old woman who had abdominal distension for 2 months. A detailed examination led to the suspicion of an ovarian tumor and revealed an accumulation of pleural effusion and ascitic fluid. Thoracentesis was performed, raising the suspicion of metastasis of high-grade serous carcinoma arising from the ovary. An ovarian biopsy was scheduled to select subsequent pharmacotherapy, and a drain was inserted preoperatively into the left thoracic cavity. Thereafter, a polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the patient was positive for COVID-19. Thus, the surgery was postponed. After the thoracic cavity drain was removed, pneumothorax occurred, and mediastinal and subcutaneous emphysema was observed. Thoracic cavity drains were then placed again. The patient’s condition was conservatively relieved without surgery. This patient may have developed pneumothorax ex vacuo during the course of a COVID-19 infection. Since chronic inflammation in the thoracic cavity is involved in the onset of pneumothorax ex vacuo, careful consideration is required for the thoracic cavity drainage of malignant pleural effusion and other fluid retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryusei Yoshino
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Breast Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University Hospital, 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka Higashi, Asahikawa-shi 078-8510, Japan
| | - Nana Yoshida
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Breast Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University Hospital, 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka Higashi, Asahikawa-shi 078-8510, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Yasuda
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Breast Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University Hospital, 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka Higashi, Asahikawa-shi 078-8510, Japan
| | - Akane Ito
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Breast Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University Hospital, 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka Higashi, Asahikawa-shi 078-8510, Japan
| | - Masaki Nakatsubo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Breast Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University Hospital, 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka Higashi, Asahikawa-shi 078-8510, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kitada
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Breast Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University Hospital, 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka Higashi, Asahikawa-shi 078-8510, Japan
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7
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Venkitakrishnan R, Augustine J, Ramachandran D, Cleetus M. Pneumothorax ex vacuo: Three cases of an uncommon entity. Lung India 2023; 40:169-172. [PMID: 37006103 PMCID: PMC10174644 DOI: 10.4103/lungindia.lungindia_517_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pneumothorax is a frequently encountered entity in pulmonary practice and can be primary or secondary. Traumatic and iatrogenic causes also account for a minority of cases presenting to the chest physician. The most common therapeutic intervention done is a tube thoracostomy in all but the mildest of cases. Pneumothorax ex vacuo is a distinctly uncommon entity that differs considerably from the rest of the pneumothorax cases in its pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, radiological findings, and management. Pneumothorax in this entity results from the sucking in of air into the pleural space caused by an exaggerated negative intrapleural pressure, which is most frequently secondary to acute lobar collapse. Symptoms attributable to pneumothorax per se are distinctly mild and the vital aspect of treatment is to relieve the bronchial obstruction. Tube thoracostomy fails to relieve the pneumothorax in such cases and should be avoided. We share three cases of pneumothorax ex vacuo encountered in our institution and alert clinicians of the presentation, radiology, and management of this uncommon condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jolsana Augustine
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Divya Ramachandran
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Melcy Cleetus
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, Kochi, Kerala, India
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8
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Isus G, Vollmer I. Ultrasound-guided interventional radiology procedures in the chest. RADIOLOGIA 2021; 63:536-546. [PMID: 34801188 DOI: 10.1016/j.rxeng.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Ultrasonography is a very good tool for guiding different interventional procedures in the chest. It is the ideal technique for managing conditions involving the pleural space, and it makes it possible to carry out procedures such as thoracocentesis, biopsies, or drainage. In the lungs, only lesions in contact with the costal pleura are accessible to ultrasound-guided interventions. In this type of lung lesions, ultrasound is as effective as computed tomography to guide interventional procedures, but the rate of complications and time required for the intervention are lower for ultrasound-guided procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Isus
- Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico (CDIC), Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - I Vollmer
- Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico (CDIC), Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain.
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10
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Williams JG, Lerner AD. Managing complications of pleural procedures. J Thorac Dis 2021; 13:5242-5250. [PMID: 34527363 PMCID: PMC8411187 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-2019-ipicu-04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Pleural disease is common and often requires procedural intervention. Given this prevalence, pleural procedures are performed by a wide range of providers with varying skill level in both medical and surgical specialties. Even though the overall complication rate of pleural procedures is low, the proximity to vital organs and blood vessels can lead to serious complications which if left unrecognized can be life threatening. As a result, it is of the utmost importance for the provider to have a firm grasp of the local anatomy both conceptually when preparing for the procedure and physically, via physical exam and the use of a real time imaging modality such as ultrasound, when performing the procedure. With this in mind, anyone who wishes to safely perform pleural procedures should be able to appropriately anticipate, quickly identify, and efficiently manage any potential complication including not only those seen with many procedures such as pain, bleeding, and infection but also those specific to procedures performed in the thorax such as pneumothorax, re-expansional pulmonary edema, and regional organ injury. In this article, we will review the basic approach to most pleural procedures along with essential local anatomy most often encountered during these procedures. This will lay the foundation for the remainder of the article where we will discuss clinical manifestations and management of various pleural procedure complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- John G Williams
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrew D Lerner
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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11
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Limited Clinical Utility of Chest Radiography in Asymptomatic Patients after Interventional Radiology-Performed Ultrasound-Guided Thoracentesis: Analysis of 3,022 Consecutive Patients. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY ISVIR 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1723096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to report the utility of chest radiography following interventional radiology-performed ultrasound-guided thoracentesis.
Materials and Methods A total of 3,998 patients underwent thoracentesis between 2003 and 2018 at two institutions. A total of 3,022 (75.6%) patients were older than 18 years old, underwent interventional radiology-performed ultrasound-guided thoracentesis, and had same-day post-procedure chest radiograph evaluation. Patient age (years), laterality of thoracentesis, procedural technical success, volume of fluid removed (mL), method of post-procedure chest imaging, absence or presence of pneumothorax, pneumothorax size (mm), pneumothorax management measures, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Technical success was defined as successful aspiration of pleural fluid. Post-procedure clinical outcomes included new patient-perceived dyspnea and hypoxia (oxygen saturations < 90% on room air). Costs associated with radiographs were estimated using Medicare and Medicaid fee schedules.
Results Mean age was 56.7 ± 15.5 years. Interventional radiology-performed ultrasound-guided thoracentesis was performed on the left (n = 1,531; 50.7%), right (n = 1,477; 48.9%), and bilaterally (n = 14; 0.5%) using 5-French catheters. Technical success was 100% (n = 3,022). Mean volume of 940 ± 550 mL of fluid was removed. Post-procedure imaging was performed in the form of posteroanterior (PA) (2.6%; 78/3,022), anteroposterior (AP) (17.0%; 513/3,022), PA and lateral (77.9%; 2,355/3,022), or PA, lateral, and left lateral decubitus (2.5%; 76/3,022) chest radiographs. Post-procedural pneumothorax was identified in 21 (0.69%) patients. Mean pneumothorax size, measured on chest radiograph as the longest distance from the chest wall to the lung, was 18.8 ± 10.2 mm (range: 5.0–35.0 mm). Of the 21 pneumothoraces, 7 (33.3%) were asymptomatic, resolved spontaneously, and had a mean size of 6.4 ± 2.4 mm. Fourteen pneumothoraces, of mean size 25.0 ± 5.8 mm, required management with a pleural drainage catheter (66.6%). The overall incidence of pneumothorax requiring pleural drainage catheter placement following interventional radiology-performed ultrasound-guided thoracentesis was 0.46% (14/3,022). Of the patients requiring drainage catheter placement, 12/14 (85.7%) and 13/14 (92.9%) had dyspnea and hypoxia, respectively. Potential costs to Medicare and Medicaid, for chest radiographs, in this study, were $27,547 and $10,581, respectively.
Conclusion The incidence of clinically significant pneumothorax requiring catheter drainage following interventional radiology-operated ultrasound-guided thoracentesis is exceedingly low (0.46%), and routine post-procedure chest radiographs in asymptomatic patients provide little value. Reserving post-procedure chest radiographs for patients with post-procedure dyspnea or hypoxia will result in more efficient resource utilization and health care cost savings.
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12
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Gillett D, Mitchell MA, Dhaliwal I. Avoid the Trap: Nonexpanding Lung. Chest 2021; 160:1131-1136. [PMID: 33895128 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2021.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonexpanding lung is a mechanical complication in which part of the lung is unable to expand to the chest wall, preventing apposition of the visceral and parietal pleura. This can result from various visceral pleural disease processes, including malignant pleural effusion and empyema. Nonexpanding lung can be referred to as trapped lung or lung entrapment, both with distinct clinical features and management strategies. Early evaluation of pleural effusions is important to address underlying causes of pleural inflammation and to prevent the progression from lung entrapment to trapped lung. Some patients with trapped lung will not experience symptomatic relief with pleural fluid removal. Therefore, misrecognition of trapped lung can result in patients undergoing unnecessary procedures with significant cost and morbidity. We reviewed the current understanding of nonexpanding lung, which included causes, common presentations, preventative strategies, and recommendations for clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Gillett
- Division of Respirology, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
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Complications of thoracentesis: incidence, risk factors, and strategies for prevention. Curr Opin Pulm Med 2017; 22:378-85. [PMID: 27093476 DOI: 10.1097/mcp.0000000000000285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although thoracentesis is generally considered safe, procedural complications are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. In this article, we review the risk factors and prevention of the most common complications of thoracentesis including pneumothorax, bleeding (chest wall hematoma and hemothorax), and re-expansion pulmonary edema. RECENT FINDINGS Recent data support the importance of operator expertise and the use of ultrasound in reducing the risk of iatrogenic pneumothorax. Although coagulopathy or thrombocytopenia and the use of anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications have traditionally been viewed as contraindications to thoracentesis, new evidence suggests that patients may be able to safely undergo thoracentesis without treating their bleeding risk. Re-expansion pulmonary edema, a rare complication of thoracentesis, is felt to result in part from the generation of excessively negative pleural pressure. When and how to monitor changes in pleural pressure during thoracentesis remains a focus of ongoing study. SUMMARY Major complications of thoracentesis are uncommon. Clinician awareness of risk factors for procedural complications and familiarity with strategies that improve outcomes are essential components for safely performing thoracentesis.
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Demystifying the persistent pneumothorax: role of imaging. Insights Imaging 2016; 7:411-29. [PMID: 27100907 PMCID: PMC4877351 DOI: 10.1007/s13244-016-0486-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 02/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Evaluation for pneumothorax is an important indication for obtaining chest radiographs in patients who have had trauma, recent cardiothoracic surgery or are on ventilator support. By definition, a persistent pneumothorax constitutes ongoing bubbling of air from an in situ chest drain, 48 h after its insertion. Persistent pneumothorax remains a diagnostic dilemma and identification of potentially treatable aetiologies is important. These may be chest tube related (kinks or malposition), lung parenchymal disease, bronchopleural fistula, or rarely, oesophageal-pleural fistula. Although radiographs remain the mainstay for diagnosis and follow up of pneumothorax, computed tomography (CT) is increasingly being used for problem solving. Aetiology of persistent air leak determines the optimal treatment. For some, a simple repositioning of the chest tube/drain may suffice; others may require surgery. In this pictorial review, we will briefly describe the physiology of pneumothorax, discuss imaging features of identifiable causes for persistent pneumothorax and provide a brief overview of treatment options. Specific aetiology of a persistent air leak may often not be immediately discernible, and will need to be carefully sought. Accurate interpretation of imaging studies can expedite diagnosis and facilitate prompt treatment. Key points • Persistent pneumothorax is defined as a leak persisting for more than 2 days. • Radiographs can identify chest-tube-related causes of pneumothorax. • CT is the most useful test to identify other causes. • Penetrating thoracic injury can cause fistulous communication resulting in a persistent pneumothorax. • Discontinuity of visceral pleura identified by CT may indicate a bronchopleural fistula.
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Sumner C, Rozanski E. Management of respiratory emergencies in small animals. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2013; 43:799-815. [PMID: 23747261 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2013.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Management of respiratory distress involves careful consideration of the history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing. Supplemental oxygen is useful. Urgent procedures, such as intubation, thoracococentesis, or tracheostomy, may be required. The prognosis is dependent on the underlying disease, but is often favorable. This article reviews the approach, differential diagnoses, and the approach to management for dogs and cats with respiratory distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Sumner
- Emergency and Critical Care Section, Tufts VETS, 525 South Street, Walpole, MA 02081, USA
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16
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Soldati G, Smargiassi A, Inchingolo R, Sher S, Valente S, Corbo GM. Ultrasound-guided pleural puncture in supine or recumbent lateral position - feasibility study. Multidiscip Respir Med 2013; 8:18. [PMID: 23497643 PMCID: PMC3605139 DOI: 10.1186/2049-6958-8-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2012] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study is to evaluate feasibility, safety and efficacy of accessing the pleural space with the patient supine or in lateral recumbent position, under constant ultrasonic guidance along the costophrenic sinus. Methods All patients with pleural effusion, referred to thoracentesis or pleural drainage from February 2010 to January 2011 in two institutions, were drained either supine or in lateral recumbent position through an echomonitored cannulation of the costophrenic sinus. The technique is described in detail and an analysis of safety and feasibility is carried out. Results One hundred and one thoracenteses were performed on 76 patients and 30 pigtail catheters were inserted in 30 patients (for a total of 131 pleural procedures in 106 patients enrolled). The feasibility of the procedures was 100% and in every case it was possible to follow real time needle tip passage in the pleural space. Ninety eight thoracenteses (97%) and all catheter drainages were successfully completed. Four thoracenteses were stopped because of the appearance of complications while no pigtail drainage procedure was stopped. After 24 hour follow up, one chest pain syndrome (1.3% of completed thoracenteses) and two pneumothoraces (1.4%) occurred. The mean acquisition time of pleural space was 76 ± 9 seconds for thoracentesis and 185 ± 46 seconds for drainage insertion (p < 0.05). Conclusions This study highlights the safety and efficacy of this technique of real time echo-monitored pleural space puncture, that offers a more comfortable patient position, an easier approach for the operator, a very low rate of complications with short acquisition time of pleural space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gino Soldati
- Pulmonary Medicine Department, University Hospital A, Gemelli, Rome, Italy.
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Kim YS, Susanto I, Lazar CA, Zarrinpar A, Eshaghian P, Smith MI, Busuttil R, Wang TS. Pneumothorax ex-vacuo or "trapped lung" in the setting of hepatic hydrothorax. BMC Pulm Med 2012; 12:78. [PMID: 23244504 PMCID: PMC3538609 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2466-12-78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatic hydrothorax is a major pulmonary complication of liver disease occurring in up to 5-10% of patients with cirrhosis. Case presentation We report four observations of the development of pneumothorax ex-vacuo or trapped lung in the setting of hepatic hydrothorax. The diagnosis of trapped lung was made based on the presence of a hydropneumothorax after evacuation of a longstanding hepatic hydrothorax with failure of the lung to re-expand after chest tube placement in three of the four cases. Two patients underwent surgical decortication with one subsequent death from post-operative bleeding. The other two patients remarkably had spontaneous improvement of their “trapped lung” without surgical intervention. Conclusions While pneumothorax ex-vacuo is a known phenomenon in malignant effusions, to our knowledge, it has never been described in association with hepatic hydrothoraces. The pathophysiology of this phenomenon remains unclear but could be related to chronic inflammation with development of a fibrous layer along the visceral pleura.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan S Kim
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Room 37-131 CHS, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Wachsman AM, Hoffer EK, Forauer AR, Silas AM, Gemery JM. Tension Pneumothorax After Placement of a Tunneled Pleural Drainage Catheter in a Patient with Recurrent Malignant Pleural Effusions. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol 2006; 30:531-3. [PMID: 16967212 DOI: 10.1007/s00270-006-0073-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
A case of tension pneumothorax developed after placement of a tunneled pleural catheter for treatment of malignant pleural effusion in a patient with advanced lung cancer. The catheter placement was carried out by an experienced operator under direct ultrasound guidance, and the patient showed immediate symptomatic improvement with acute decompensation occurring several hours later. Possible mechanisms for this serious complication of tunneled pleural catheter placement are described, and potential strategies to avoid or prevent it in future are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Wachsman
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
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