Mechanical pleurodesis does not reduce recurrence of spontaneous pneumothorax: a randomized trial

Joint ERS/EACTS/ESTS clinical practice guidelines on adults with spontaneous pneumothorax

OBJECTIVES

The optimal management for spontaneous pneumothorax (SP) remains contentious, with various proposed approaches. This joint clinical practice guideline from the ERS, EACTS and ESTS societies provides evidence-based recommendations for the management of SP.

METHODS

This multidisciplinary Task Force addressed 12 key clinical questions on the management of pneumothorax, using ERS methodology for guideline development. Systematic searches were performed in MEDLINE and Embase. Evidence was synthesised by conducting meta-analyses, if possible, or narratively. Certainty of evidence was rated with GRADE (Grading, Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation). The Evidence to Decision framework was used to decide on the direction and strength of the recommendations.

RESULTS

The panel makes a conditional recommendation for conservative care of minimally symptomatic patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) who are clinically stable. We make a strong recommendation for needle aspiration over chest tube drain for initial PSP treatment. We make a conditional recommendation for ambulatory management for initial PSP treatment. We make a conditional recommendation for early surgical intervention for the initial treatment of PSP in patients who prioritise recurrence prevention. The panel makes a conditional recommendation for autologous blood patch in secondary SP patients with persistent air leak (PAL). The panel could not make recommendations for other interventions, including bronchial valves, suction, pleurodesis in addition to surgical resection or type of surgical pleurodesis.

CONCLUSIONS

With this international guideline, the ERS, EACTS and ESTS societies provide clinical practice recommendations for SP management. We highlight evidence gaps for the management of PAL and recurrence prevention, with research recommendations made.

SHAREABLE ABSTRACT

This update of an ERS Task Force statement from 2015 provides a concise comprehensive update of the literature base. 24 evidence-based recommendations were made for management of pneumothorax, balancing clinical priorities and patient views.https://bit.ly/3TKGp9e.

Joint ERS/EACTS/ESTS clinical practice guidelines on adults with spontaneous pneumothorax

BACKGROUND

The optimal management for spontaneous pneumothorax (SP) remains contentious, with various proposed approaches. This joint clinical practice guideline from the ERS, EACTS and ESTS societies provides evidence-based recommendations for the management of SP.

METHODS

This multidisciplinary Task Force addressed 12 key clinical questions on the management of pneumothorax, using ERS methodology for guideline development. Systematic searches were performed in MEDLINE and Embase. Evidence was synthesised by conducting meta-analyses, if possible, or narratively. Certainty of evidence was rated with GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations). The Evidence to Decision framework was used to decide on the direction and strength of the recommendations.

RESULTS

The panel makes a conditional recommendation for conservative care of minimally symptomatic patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) who are clinically stable. We make a strong recommendation for needle aspiration over chest tube drain for initial PSP treatment. We make a conditional recommendation for ambulatory management for initial PSP treatment. We make a conditional recommendation for early surgical intervention for the initial treatment of PSP in patients who prioritise recurrence prevention. The panel makes a conditional recommendation for autologous blood patch in secondary SP patients with persistent air leak (PAL). The panel could not make recommendations for other interventions, including bronchial valves, suction, pleurodesis in addition to surgical resection or type of surgical pleurodesis.

CONCLUSIONS

With this international guideline, the ERS, EACTS and ESTS societies provide clinical practice recommendations for SP management. We highlight evidence gaps for the management of PAL and recurrence prevention, with research recommendations made.

Prospective Observation Study for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax: Incidence of and Risk Factors for Postoperative Neogenesis of Bullae

PURPOSE

Details of the neogenesis of bullae (NOB), which causes recurrent primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) following bullectomy, have not been reported and risk factors for NOB remain unclear. We aimed to clarify the details of NOB.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective study using three computed tomography (CT) examinations performed 6, 12, and 24 months after bullectomy to identify the incidence of and risk factors for NOB. We enrolled 50 patients who underwent bullectomy for PSP.

RESULTS

After excluding 11 patients who canceled the postoperative CT examination at 6 months after bullectomy, only 39 patients were analyzed. The incidence of NOB at 6, 12, and 24 months after bullectomy was 38.5%, 55.2%, and 71.2%, respectively. The rate of NOB in the operated lung was almost 2 times higher than that in the contralateral nonoperative lung. Male sex, multiple bullae on preoperative CT, long stapling line (≥7 cm), deep stapling depth (≥1.5 cm), and heavier resected sample (≥5 g) were suggested to be risk factors for NOB.

CONCLUSIONS

We recognized a high incidence of postoperative NOB in PSP patients. Bullectomy itself seems to promote NOB. Postoperative NOB occurs frequently, especially in patients who require a large-volume lung resection with a long staple line.

Uniportal thoracoscopic bullectomy with improved parietal pleurectomy for primary spontaneous pneumothorax

INTRODUCTION

Parietal pleurectomy with bullectomy has been established as an effective method for preventing the recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP). Our center introduced enhanced technical measures in uniportal thoracoscopic parietal pleurectomy with bullectomy for patients with PSP, aiming to document our initial experience and assess the procedure's effectiveness in preventing the recurrence of PSP.

METHODS

We analyzed the clinical data of 86 patients with PSP who underwent the improved uniportal thoracoscopic parietal pleurectomy with bullectomy between July 2019 and August 2022. During the procedure, the parietal pleura above the second intercostal space was stripped but not removed. Instead, it was retained in the thoracic cavity using a piece of pedunculated pleura. Subsequently, the stumps of the lung were covered by the preserved parietal pleura.

RESULTS

The results of the study showed that the mean operative time was 59.87 ± 16.93 min, and the postoperative drainage duration averaged 3.94 ± 2.17 days. The mean intraoperative blood loss was 24.33 ± 48.91 ml, and the mean postoperative drainage volume was 289.00 ± 170.03 ml. Prolonged air leakage for more than 5 days was observed in five patients (5.81%), but no other postoperative complications were recorded. During the follow-up, one patient (1.16%) experienced a recurrence of pneumothorax.

CONCLUSIONS

The perioperative results of bullectomy with the improved pleurectomy technique are deemed satisfactory. The various technical steps attempted at our center are found to be feasible and safe, and they may contribute to reducing the rates of recurrence in PSP.

Pain management after pneumothorax surgery: intercostal nerve block or thoracic epidural analgesia

OBJECTIVES

In patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for pneumothorax, the benefits and risks of single-shot intercostal nerve block as loco-regional analgesia are not well known. We retrospectively compared the effectiveness of intercostal nerve blocks as a viable alternative to thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) regarding pain control and enhanced recovery.

METHODS

A retrospective multicentre analysis with single-centre propensity score matching was performed in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for pneumothorax receiving either TEA or intercostal nerve block. The primary outcome was a proportion of pain scores ≥4 (scale 0-10) until postoperative day (POD) 3. Secondary outcomes included variation in pain over time, additional opioid use, length of stay, mobility, complications and recurrence rate.

RESULTS

In 218 patients, TEA was compared to intercostal nerve block and showed no difference in the proportion of pain scores ≥4 {14.3% [interquartile range (IQR) 0.0-33.3] vs 11.1% (IQR 0.0-27.3) respectively, P = 0.24}, more frequently needed additional opioids on the day of surgery (18% vs 48%) and first POD (20% vs 42%), had a shorter length of stay (4.0 days [IQR 3.0-7.0] vs 3.0 days [IQR 2.8-4.0]) and were significantly more mobile until POD 3, while having similar recurrences. Intercostal nerve block had higher pain scores early in the course whereas TEA had higher late (rebound) pain scores.

CONCLUSIONS

In a multimodal analgesic setting with additional opioids, intercostal nerve block shows comparable moments of unacceptable pain from POD 0-3 compared to TEA and is linked to improved mobility. Results require randomized confirmation.

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.

Expert Review on Spontaneous Pneumothorax: Advances, Controversies, and New Directions

For decades, there has been scanty evidence, most of which is of poor quality, to guide clinicians in the assessment and management of pneumothorax. A recent surge in pneumothorax research has begun to address controversies surrounding the topic and change the face of pneumothorax management. In this article, we review controversies concerning the etiology, pathogenesis, and classification of pneumothorax, and discuss recent advances in its management, including conservative and ambulatory management. We review the evidence base for the challenges of managing pneumothorax, including persistent air leak, and suggest new directions for future research that can help provide patient-centered, evidence-based management for this challenging cohort of patients.

The effect of polyglycolic acid sheet in preventing postoperative recurrent pneumothorax: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax occasionally relapses, even after bullectomy; therefore, coverage of the bullectomy staple line for pleural reinforcement is common in Japan. However, the appropriate covering materials have not yet been determined.

METHODS

This was a longitudinal prospective cohort study. Data were available for patients aged < 40 years with primary spontaneous pneumothorax who underwent their first thoracoscopic bullectomy between July 2015 and June 2021. We used oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) sheets from July 2015 to June 2018, and polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheets from July 2018 to June 2021. The postoperative recurrence-free survival rate was evaluated. The characteristics of the recurrent cases (radiographic, intraoperative, and pathological findings) were also evaluated. The extent of pleural adhesions was classified into the following three groups: none, medium, or extensive.

RESULTS

A total of 187 patients were included in the study. There were 92 and 95 participants in the ORC and PGA sheet groups, respectively. The postoperative recurrence-free survival rates were significantly higher in the PGA sheet group than in the ORC sheet group (ORC group vs. PGA group, 82.9% vs. 95.4%, p = 0.031). In recurrent cases, there was a significant difference in terms of pleural adhesion (0.0% [12 of 12, none] vs. 100.0% [four of four, extensive], p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with ORC sheets, PGA sheets are an effective material for preventing early recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax. Strong local pleural adhesions potentially contribute to decreasing recurrence.

Manejo quirúrgico del neumotórax espontáneo primario. Encuesta nacional del Grupo Emergente de Cirugía Torácica de la Sociedad Española de Neumología y Cirugía Torácica (SEPAR)

Introduction

In February 2022, the Emerging Thoracic Surgery Group of the Spanish Society of Pneumology and Thoracic Surgery initiated a multicenter study on the surgical management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP). As a preliminary step, this survey was developed with the aim of finding out the current situation in our country to specify and direct this project.

Method

A descriptive study was carried out based on the results of this survey launched through the Google Docs® platform. The survey was sent to all active national thoracic surgeons, a total of 319. It consisted of 20 questions including demographic, surgical and follow-up data.

Results

We obtained 124 responses (39% of all specialists and doctors in training in the national territory). The most consistent indications were: homolateral recurrence for 124 (100%), lack of resolution of the episode for 120 (96.7%), risk professions for 104 (84%) and bilateral pneumothorax for 93 (75%). The approach of choice for 100% of respondents was videothoracoscopy. Of these, 96 contemplated pulmonary resection of obvious lesions (77%). Regarding the pleurodesis technique, pleural abrasion was the technique most used by 70 respondents (56.7%) while 49 (40%) performed chemical pleurodesis with talc either alone or in combination with mechanical pleurodesis.

Conclusions

While there is some consistency in some aspects of surgical management of PSP, this survey makes evident the variability in pleurodesis techniques applied among surgeons in our country.

Management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax in teenagers: An 11-year study

AIM

Management of teenagers with primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) is not consensual. We report our experience over an 11-year period.

METHODS

For each patient under 20 years hospitalised with PSP from 2008 to 2018, demographic data, smoking habits, clinical presentation, hospitalisation unit, radiological management and its results, therapeutic management (observation, needle aspiration, chest tube drainage and surgery), complications, length of stay, given advice at discharge and recurrence were collected.

RESULTS

Seventy patients were included in different paediatric or adult surgery or pulmonology wards (82.9% boys; 16.8 ± 1.7 years; one severe presentation; 18/58 smokers). Chest CT-scan (n = 42/70, 60%) revealed blebs/bullae in 18/39 examinations (46.2%). Treatment consisted of observation (14/70, 20%), needle aspiration (2/70, 2.9%), chest tube (53/70, 75.7%) and video-assisted thoracoscopy surgery (27/70, 38.6%). Half patients with interventional procedure presented complications. A median of 10 chest X-rays was noted during a median stay of 8 days. Advice concerning sport practice, flying, smoking, etc., was variably delivered. PSP recurrence concerned 35/70 patients (50%) without identified predictive factors.

CONCLUSION

Compared to recent recommendations of a more conservative approach, chest CT-scan and interventional strategy are overused in our teenagers with PSP. Observation, more or less needle aspiration, should be clearly the first-line treatments.

Significance of very-low-voltage coagulation plus coverage with polyglycolic acid sheet after bullectomy for primary spontaneous pneumothorax

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to clarify the efficacy of the combination of low-voltage coagulation plus staple line coverage with a polyglycolic acid sheet after bullectomy for primary spontaneous pneumothorax to prevent a postoperative recurrence.

METHODS

A total of 143 patients who underwent bullectomy for primary spontaneous pneumothorax between January 2014 and December 2019 were enrolled in this study. We classified the patients into two groups based on additional procedures after bullectomy, namely, low-voltage coagulation for the margin of the staple line plus coverage with a polyglycolic acid sheet (Group A) and staple line coverage with a polyglycolic acid sheet alone (Group B). We evaluated perioperative factors and recurrence-free survival after surgery in the two groups.

RESULTS

Nine patients in Group B developed postoperative recurrences. In contrast, there was no postoperative recurrence in Group A. According to the Kaplan-Meier curves, the 2-year recurrence-free survival rates of the patients were 100% and 90.3%, in Group A and Group B, respectively. The log-rank test showed a significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

Low-voltage coagulation for the margin of a staple line plus coverage with a polyglycolic acid sheet is a useful option as an additional technique after bullectomy for primary spontaneous pneumothorax to prevent a postoperative recurrence.

Early Postoperative Pneumothorax Might Not Be 'True' Recurrence

Objectives: To date, there is no consensual definition of what constitutes a postoperative recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP), despite there being many studies reporting a high incidence of recurrence. This study aims to describe the long-term recurrence rates of pneumothorax and to suggest a possible way to differentiate recurrence events based on temporal patterns. Methods: This single-center study retrospectively evaluated all postoperative recurrence of PSP from January 2007 to May 2019. Patients’ demographics, history of pneumothorax, radiologic data, surgical technique, and the time between operation and recurrence were analyzed. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to find potential risk factors related to long-term recurrence. Results: Of the 77 postoperative recurrent cases of pneumothorax, 21 (27.2%) occurred within 30 days after surgery and, thus, were classified as early recurrences (ER), while the remaining cases were classified as late recurrences (LR). There was no difference in preoperative variables between the two groups. However, the rate of incidence of second recurrence (SR), which represented a long-term prognosis, was significantly higher in the LR group (28.6% vs. 4.8%, p = 0.030). On univariate and multivariable analyses, late recurrence was the only significant factor predicting later recurrence events. Conclusion: Postoperative recurrence (PoR) within 30 days had a lower SR rate. Therefore, it might not be a ‘true’ postoperative recurrence with a favorable prognosis. Further studies investigating postoperative recurrence based on temporal patterns would be warranted to improve the classification of PoR.

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.

Recurrence Rates After Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for Spontaneous Pneumothorax

Background: Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) with pulmonary apical wedge resection is the mainstay procedure performed for spontaneous pneumothorax (sPTX). However, there is variability in adjunctive techniques, including pleurectomy or mechanical pleurodesis, used to prevent recurrences. The objectives of this study were to determine sPTX recurrence rates after initial VATS and to compare the efficacy of adjunct pleurectomy versus mechanical pleurodesis. Methods: Patients 11-21 years old who experienced sPTX and underwent initial VATS from December 2011 to December 2020 were identified at a single institution. Descriptive analyses and statistical tests were performed to identify factors associated with ipsilateral sPTX recurrence after surgery. Results: Fifty-six patients (48 males) underwent 58 VATS. The majority of patients were white (82.1%), male (85.7%), and nonsmokers (78.6%). Pleurectomy was performed in 27 (46.5%) cases, mechanical pleurodesis in 25 (43.1%), and pleurectomy with mechanical pleurodesis in 6 (10.3%). Overall, 15 patients (25.9%) experienced a postoperative recurrence, of which 8 (13.8%) required intervention. Recurrences occurred between 7 and 800 days after the index procedure. There was no significant difference in rates of overall recurrence between pleurectomy, mechanical pleurodesis, and pleurectomy with mechanical pleurodesis [7/27 (25.9%); 7/25 (28.0%); 1/6 (16.7%): P = .99] or recurrences requiring intervention between the three adjunctive techniques (5/27; 3/25; 0/6: P = .66). Conclusion: Over 25% of patients experience recurrence of sPTX after VATS. Recurrence rates were similar whether pleurectomy, mechanical pleurodesis, or pleurectomy with pleurodesis was performed. Further multi-institutional and prospective studies are needed to establish the optimal strategy to limit recurrence rates for pediatric patients with sPTX.

Pleurabrade: A Spiral Brush for Mechanical Pleurodesis and a Review of the Literature

Background  While the optimal treatment for primary spontaneous pneumothorax remains unclear, mechanical pleurodesis is a well-established treatment. The Pleurabrade is a spiral brush designed for mechanical pleurodesis during thoracoscopy. We present two patients who underwent mechanical pleurodesis with the Pleurabrade. Case Description  Two patients with spontaneous pneumothorax underwent operative intervention including mechanical pleurodesis with the Pleurabrade. Chest tubes were removed within 48 hours postoperatively and they were discharged home. Both patients remain recurrence free at 11 and 22 months, respectively. Conclusion  While further testing is needed, these case reports and operative video highlight the Pleurabrade as an efficient device for thoracoscopic mechanical pleurodesis.

Spontaneous Pneumothorax: Management and Prognosis

This review article will review treatment and prognosis of spontaneous pneumothorax in dogs and cats. The advantages of surgical and medical management in dogs and cats, as well as current treatment practices, including autologous blood pleurodesis and small-bore chest tubes, will be discussed.

An evidence-based review of primary spontaneous pneumothorax in the adolescent population

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) is a relatively common problem in emergency medicine. The incidence of PSP peaks in adolescence and is most common in tall, thin males. Recent advances in the care of patients with PSP have called into question traditional approaches to management. This clinical review highlights the changing management strategies for PSP and concludes with a proposed evidence-based pathway to guide the care of adolescents with PSP.

Retention of Bovie scratch pad radio-opaque marker during VATS Pleurodesis: case report

Background

Surgical intervention for spontaneous pneumothorax typically includes mechanical pleurodesis that frequently utilizes a Bovie scratch pad given its universal presence, low cost and ease of use. The pad is folded on itself after dividing it in half, allowing easier passage through the smaller incisions.

However, unintentional foreign body retention may occur during the course of an operation leading to reoperations or even worse complications. This case is reported to raise awareness that dividing the scratch pad may allow the embedded radio-opaque marker to fall out and become retained as a foreign body.

Case presentation

The patient is a 41 year-old female who presented with shortness of breath secondary to spontaneous pneumothorax. Chest CT scan showed apical blebs. The patient underwent video assisted thorascopic surgery (VATS) with bleb resection and mechanical pleurodesis using a divided and folded bovie scratch pad. Postoperative chest x-ray showed a retained foreign body. Reoperation confirmed this to be the radio-opaque marker of the scratch pad and was removed. The patient did well and was discharged the following day.

Conclusion

Dividing the bovie scratch pad may damage and “weaken” the product allowing the radio- opaque marker to fall out during its use for pleurodesis and should be discouraged. Recommendation is made of using the scratch pad as a whole and not dividing it.

Graphical abstract

Retained radio-opaque marker of bovie scratch pad during VATS mechanical pleurodesis.

Recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax following bullectomy with pleurodesis or pleurectomy: A retrospective analysis

Background

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax is managed initially with observation and chest tube placement, followed by surgical intervention in select cases. With little currently published evidence, the role of surgical pleurodesis or pleurectomy to reduce primary spontaneous pneumothorax recurrence is unclear. This study compares the recurrence rates of primary spontaneous pneumothorax following bullectomy alone versus bullectomy with pleurodesis or pleurectomy.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed at a quaternary hospital for all patients undergoing surgery for primary spontaneous pneumothorax between June 2006 and December 2018. Patient demographics, disease severity, operative technique, and time between initial surgery and recurrence were recorded. Standard statistical techniques were used for univariable and multivariable analyses.

Results

Of 222 total included patients, 28 required a second surgery: 4 (1.8%) for prolonged air leak and 24 (10.8%) for recurrent pneumothorax. The median time from first to second surgery was 363 days and 35.7% of recurrences did not present until after two years. Age, sex, smoking, year of initial surgery, disease severity, and surgical technique did not significantly affect recurrence rate on univariable analysis. On multivariable analysis, the odds ratios of recurrence for bullectomy with mechanical pleurodesis or pleurectomy were respectively 0.82 and 0.15 (P=0.218), compared to bullectomy alone. Combined bullectomy, pleurectomy, and pleurodesis was most effective (0/18, 0%).

Conclusions

Bullectomy with pleurectomy and pleurodesis demonstrated a 0% recurrence rate for the treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax in this study. Statistical significance was not achieved in univariable or multivariable analyses comparing recurrence rates for the surgical approaches. A multi-center randomized controlled trial with longer follow-up than previously performed is needed to confirm these preliminary findings and optimize surgical management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax.

Should We Consider the Resected Lung Volume in Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax?

BACKGROUND

Although bullectomy is the most curative treatment in primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP), postoperative recurrence is not uncommon. New bulla formation at the staple line is the most common cause of recurrence. However, the mechanism is not known. We believe that the pressure gradient plays the main role in new bulla formation. A large resection amount induces a prolonged pressure gradient for obliteration of the residual space. This study aimed to identify the association between resected lung volume and recurrence.

METHODS

The medical records of patients who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) bullectomy were reviewed between October 2010 and December 2017. A total of 396 patients underwent surgery for spontaneous pneumothorax. The electronic medical records (EMRs) of the patients were reviewed. Patients with secondary spontaneous pneumothorax were excluded. Patients who were diagnosed with emphysema on CT were excluded. Patients with PSP were excluded from the study if the bulla was not located in the apex or if there was no ruptured bulla at the time of the operation. Patients who lacked EMRs were also excluded. We reviewed the medical records of 276 patients. The apical resected lung volume was estimated using a conical volumetric formula with the use of the specimen size. The risk factors for postoperative recurrence were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median age was 19 years old (range 13-36). A total of 261 patients were male (94.6%). The median body weight and body mass index (BMI) were 58 kg (range 40-82) and 18.92 (range 15.21-26.47), respectively. In 24 patients, both sides were operated on simultaneously. The resected lung volume was obtained by using a conical volumetric formula, and the value was divided by the BMI value. The median value was 1.43 (0.03-5.67). The median operative time was 35 min (range 15-120). The median postoperative day was 4 (range 2-12). Age (p = 0.006), the value of the resected lung volume divided by BMI (p = 0.003), bilateral bullectomy (p = 0.013) and transverse diameter (p = 0.034) were associated with postoperative recurrence according to the univariate analysis. According to the multivariate analysis, age and the value of the lung volume divided by BMI were significant risk factors for postoperative recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Younger age and a large resected lung volume and a low BMI are associated with postoperative recurrence after VATS bullectomy for PSP.

Mechanical versus Chemical Pleurodesis after Bullectomy for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

 Primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) and its high recurrence rate pose a therapeutic challenge to both patients and their managing surgeons. Mechanical or chemical pleurodesis can be used to prevent recurrence, but the optimal treatment often remains a matter of debate. This meta-analysis aims to compare the outcomes between mechanical and chemical pleurodesis following bullectomy for PSP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 Studies published up to 2019 were searched from Medline, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational cohort studies (OCSs) comparing outcomes between mechanical and chemical pleurodesis for PSP was performed.

RESULTS

 Seven studies (one RCT and six OCSs) were included, comprising 1,032 cases of mechanical (799 abrasions, 202 pleurectomies, and 31 unspecified abrasions/pleurectomies/both), and 901 cases of chemical (643 talc, 69 minocycline, and 189 unspecified talc/kaolin) pleurodesis. The recurrence rate of pneumothorax after chemical pleurodesis (1.2%) was significantly lower than mechanical pleurodesis (4.0%) (pooled odds ratio [OR] = 3.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.59-5.67; p = 0.0007; I ² = 19%). Hospital stay was also slightly shorter in the chemical pleurodesis group (pooled mean difference [MD] = 0.42 days; 95% CI = 0.12-0.72; p = 0.005; I ² = 0%). There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative complications (pooled OR = 1.18; 95%CI = 0.40-3.48; p = 0.76; I ² = 71%) and operative time (pooled MD = 3.50; 95%CI = -7.28 to 14.28; p = 0.52; I ² = 99%) between these two groups.

CONCLUSION

 Chemical pleurodesis is superior to mechanical pleurodesis following bullectomy for PSP in reducing hospital stay and recurrence rate. However, more RCTs with longer follow-up are necessary to demonstrate the benefit of chemical pleurodesis for PSP.

Next-day discharge following small uniportal thoracoscopic bullectomy assisted with an anchoring suture

Objective

Manipulating the instruments during uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (U-VATS) bullectomy requires a relatively large incision. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of next-day discharge following U-VATS bullectomy using an anchoring suture.

Methods

A stapler and a scope were inserted through a single incision in the anchoring group. The bullae were retracted by the suture, which was inserted from outside of the chest wall into the thorax, and then bullectomy was performed. For those in the control group, resection of the bullae was performed with the assistance of a grasping forceps.

Results

The length of the incision of the patients in the anchoring group ([13.2 ± 2.2] mm) was significantly smaller than in the control group ([26.2 ± 3.9] mm). In addition, the number of staplers used in the anchoring group was significantly less than in the control group ([1.2 ± 0.4] vs. [1.4 ± 0.5]). Furthermore, 36 (92.3%) cases in the anchoring group were uneventfully discharged within 24 hours after bullectomy.

Conclusion

Next-day discharge after U-VATS bullectomy through a small incision assisted with an anchoring suture is safe and feasible.

Recurrence of spontaneous pneumothorax six years after VATS pleurectomy: evidence for formation of neopleura

Background

Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax (PSP) is considered an absolute and definitive contraindication for scuba diving and professional flying, unless bilateral surgical pleurectomy is performed. Only then is there a sufficiently low risk of recurrence to allow a waiver for flying and/or diving.

Case presentation

A young fit male patient who suffered a PSP 6 years ago, and underwent an uncomplicated videoscopic surgical pleurectomy, presented with a complete collapse of the lung on the initial PSP side. Microscopic examination of biopsies showed a slightly inflamed tissue but otherwise normal mesothelial cells, compatible with newly formed pleura.

Conclusions

Even with pleurectomy, in this patient, residual mesothelial cells seem to have had the capacity to create a completely new pleura and pleural space. The most appropriate surgical technique for prevention of PSP may still be debated.

Epidemiology and management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax: a systematic review

Clinical trial registration number

International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO): CRD42018084247.

Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) Talc Pleurodesis Versus Pleurectomy for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax: A Large Single-Centre Study with No Conversion

BACKGROUND

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) is a relatively common clinical entity with high incidence in the young population. Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) bullectomy and chemical or mechanical pleurodesis are two primary modalities of treatment. There has been much debate on the ideal mode of pleurodesis, but the literature on surgical outcomes comparing VATS pleurectomy with talc pleurodesis has been inconclusive.

METHODS

We performed a single-centre 5-year observational retrospective study of 202 patients who underwent VATS bullectomy with talc pleurodesis or parietal pleurectomy.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in the demographics, pre-operative and intra-operative characteristics in both groups. Recurrence of pneumothorax, chest tube duration and hospital stay were similar in both groups. However, talc pleurodesis had a shorter operative time compared to pleurectomy.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated comparable outcomes between talc pleurodesis and pleurectomy following VATS bullectomy for patients with PSP.

Management of Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax: A Single-center Experience

Background:

The prevalence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax is high in the Arab region. There is a lack of studies from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia highlighting the associated risk factors and demonstrating the effectiveness of surgical management.

Objectives:

To identify risk factors associated with primary spontaneous pneumothorax and to correlate the effectiveness of surgical management with the rate of disease recurrence.

Subjects and Methods:

This retrospective chart review included adult patients who presented with primary spontaneous pneumothorax and were managed at King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia, from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2014. The results are presented as arithmetic mean for quantitative data, and chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. P ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

In total, 151 patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax were included, with the majority being male (98.7%) and Saudis (88.7%). The mean age was 24 ± 6 years (range: 13–49 years), mean height 171 ± 8 cm (range: 144–193 cm) and mean body mass index 19.2 ± 3.8 kg/m² (range: 13.3–39.0 kg/m²). About 62% of the patients were smokers. Ten patients had an ipsilateral recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax after the first episode was successfully managed. Surgical exploration after the first episode itself was found to significantly reduce the recurrence rate. The study found that in the management of these patients, there was a shift from conventional open thoracotomy to the minimally invasive video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery method.

Conclusions:

The risk factors for primary spontaneous pneumothorax in this study were consistent with the current literature. Surgical exploration after the first episode of primary spontaneous pneumothorax significantly reduces the recurrence rate and there is a paradigm shift toward a less invasive surgical approach in managing these patients.

Neo-generation of neogenetic bullae after surgery for spontaneous pneumothorax in young adults: a prospective study

Background

To investigate the development of neogenetic bullae or blebs on 1-year postoperative chest computed tomography after video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) in young patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP).

Methods

In this prospective study, 10- to 20-year-old patients with PSP were treated via VATS with additional procedures (bullectomy, cold coagulation, coverage, pleural abrasion, or chemical pleurodesis). All patients underwent the additional procedures and computed tomography of the chest 1 year postoperatively for the assessment of neogenetic bullae. Postoperative PSP recurrence was monitored, and recurrence-free survival was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Results

Fifty-seven patients (66 cases) aged 17 ± 2 years underwent VATS for PSP and were followed up for 938 ± 496 days. Of the 36 cases at 1-year follow-up, 23 (63.9%) showed neogenetic bullae, which were adjacent to the staple lines in 16 cases (69.6%). The 1- and 2-year recurrence-free survival rates were 88.9 and 85.1%, respectively. Nine of the 66 cases (13.6%) showed recurrence after 869 ± 542 days. A history of contralateral PSP was significantly associated with recurrence.

Conclusions

VATS, combined with additional procedures, provides acceptable long-term results in young patients with PSP. Additional procedures reduce the recurrence rate of PSP but do not prevent the occurrence of neogenetic bullae. A history of contralateral PSP is a potential risk factor for post-VATS recurrence in young patients.

Surgical Treatment of Spontaneous Pneumothorax: Pleural Abrasion or Pleurectomy?

PURPOSE

A primary spontaneous pneumothorax is a condition that occurs predominantly in young and thin male individuals who do not have any history of underlying lung disease. Various techniques such as pleural abrasion and pleurectomy are used to reduce the recurrence rate, but there exists no consensus among surgeons on which surgical technique offers the lowest risk of recurrence.We aimed to compare the efficiency and recurrence risk of pleural abrasion and pleurectomy methods in patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax undergoing a wedge resection for the bulleous part of the paranchyme.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Statistically compared variables between the 2 groups were age, sex, symptoms, smoking status, number of previous pneumothorax episodes, surgical indication, bleb number, estimated blood loss, intraoperative complication, duration of the surgery, conversion to open surgery, postoperative drainage amount, chest tube removal time, length of hospital stay, morbidity, mortality, duration of narcotic analgesic usage, pain according to Visual Analog Scale evaluation, follow-up period, and postoperative recurrence.

RESULTS

The medical records of 88 patients undergoing surgery between 2013 and 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. The pleural abrasion group was superior to the pleurectomy group in terms of operation time, drainage volume, time to drain removal, hospital stay, and Visual Analog Scale pain score on postoperative day 0. Statistically, there was no difference between the pleural abrasion group and the pleurectomy group in the recurrence rates after operation (2.0% vs. 2.5%, respectively; P=0.89).

CONCLUSIONS

Thoracoscopic pleural abrasion is safer than apical pleurectomy and is associated with the same pneumothorax recurrence rate.

Efficacy of treatments in primary spontaneous pneumothorax: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) remains a significant global health problem. Despite general agreement, an official algorithm for the management of PSP still does not exist.

OBJECTIVES

Evaluating the efficacy of all available treatments in PSP.

METHODS

A systematic search of 12 electronic databases was performed to identify all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of any treatments in PSP. The primary endpoint was recurrence incidence; secondary were an immediate success, complication and hospitalization days. All available outcomes were included in frequentist network meta-analysis.

RESULTS

4262 patients of 29 RCTs were included. In patients with first episode of PSP, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), tube drainage and aspiration had no significant difference regarding recurrence. Chemical pleurodesis significantly reduced the recurrent incidence of 46% compared with aspiration and 54% compared with tube drainage. VATS and aspiration significantly decreased hospitalization days compared with tube drainage. In patients with recurrent or persistent PSP, thoracotomy with mechanical pleurodesis has a higher rank than VATS with or without pleurodesis in preventing recurrence, with no significant difference. VATS alone significantly reduced complications compared with all others treatments, except thoracotomy with abrasion.

CONCLUSIONS

Aspiration and tube drainage have no significant difference in treating patients with first episode of PSP regarding recurrence. Aspiration reduced hospitalization days when compared with tube drainage. Thoracotomy with mechanical pleurodesis and VATS with or without pleurodesis are not significantly different in preventing recurrence in patients with recurrent or persistent PSP. VATS alone reduced complications compared with others treatments except for thoracotomy with abrasion.

SECT Clinical practice guideline on the management of patients with spontaneous pneumothorax

This clinical practice guideline (CPG) emerges as an initiative of the scientific committee of the Spanish Society of Thoracic Surgery. We formulated PICO (patient, intervention, comparison, and outcome) questions on various aspects of spontaneous pneumothorax. For the evaluation of the quality of evidence and preparation of recommendations we followed the guidelines of the Grading of recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) working group.

Pleural abrasion should not routinely preferred in treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to find out whether thoracoscopic bullectomy with pleural abrasion (BLPA) could lower the recurrence ratio in primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) patients compared with bullectomy alone.

METHODS

All PSP patients who underwent video assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) bullectomy (120 bullectomy cases) or BLPA (225 BLPA cases) in our department between 2008.1 and 2013.12 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical data, perioperative data, and follow-up information were collected. Propensity score analysis was used in balancing preoperative factors between groups.

RESULTS

Three hundred and forty five patients (283 men and 62 women) with an average age of 27 (27.32±11.41) years old underwent 120 bullectomy and 225 BLPA in this study. There was no mortality or significant complication in both groups. More postoperative drainage (1,170.66±904.02 vs. 528.38±491.49, P<0.01), longer chest tube removal days (6.59±4.29 vs. 4.76±2.67, P<0.01), and more medical cost (4,703.86±1,526.31 vs. 4,204.64±1,203.90, P<0.01) were observed in BLPA group. Significant difference (P=0.02) existed in recurrence rate between BLPA group (3/225, 1.3%) and bullectomy group (7/120, 5.8%). After propensity score match, 114 patients were included in both bullectomy and BLPA groups. More postoperative drainage (1,280.18±1,071.04 vs. 523.55±484.79, P<0.01), longer chest tube removal days (6.53±4.16 vs. 4.69±2.63, P<0.01), and more medical cost (4,700.69±1,591.56 vs. 4,211.45±1,207.7, P<0.01) were observed in BLPA group. There was no significant recurrence difference between BLPA group and bullectomy group (2.6% vs. 5.3%, P=0.30).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with bullectomy, BLPA could provide similar recurrence for PSP patients, but at the price of longer operation days, longer chest tube removal days, and more medical cost, and should not be performed in PSP patients.

Outcome and risk factors of recurrence after thoracoscopic bullectomy in young adults with primary spontaneous pneumothorax

PURPOSE

To investigate the risk factors of recurrence of pneumothorax following thoracoscopic bullectomy in young adults.

METHODS

Between January, 2005 and September, 2015, 167 patients aged ≤40 years underwent initial thoracoscopic bullectomy for primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) at our hospital. Recurrence-free probability was calculated from the date of surgery to recurrence or last follow-up, using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Sixteen (9.6%) of the 167 patients suffered a recurrence (collective total, 16 recurrences). The recurrence-free intervals were 3-107 months (median 25.8 months), and the 5-year recurrence-free probability was 85.9%. Multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated that age ≤23 years (p = 0.029) and a history of ipsilateral pneumothorax before surgery (p = 0.029) were significantly associated with higher risk of recurrence. The 5-year recurrence-free probability was 72.3% for patients aged ≤23 years and a history of ipsilateral pneumothorax before surgery and 94.1% for those with neither of these factors (p = 0.001). Recurrence developed within 3 years after surgery in 14 of the 16 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients ≤23 years of age with a history of ipsilateral pneumothorax before surgery are at significantly high risk of its recurrence, frequently within 3 years; thus, the risk of postoperative recurrence of a pneumothorax must be kept in mind.

Optimal surgical technique in spontaneous pneumothorax: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Numerous thoracoscopic techniques have been used in the management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP), including wedge resection, pleurectomy, pleural abrasion, chemical pleurodesis, and staple line covering. The purpose of this systematic review was to compare outcomes for the most commonly reported techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search looking at pneumothorax recurrence rate, length of stay, and chest tube duration after surgery was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using the PubMed database.

RESULTS

Fifty-one unique studies comprised of 6907 patients published between January 1988 and June 2015 were identified. Heterogeneity among effect sizes was significant for all outcomes. The lowest recurrence rates were observed in the wedge resection + chemical pleurodesis (1.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0%-2.7%) and the wedge resection + pleural abrasion + chemical pleurodesis (2.8%; 95% CI, 1.7%-4.7%) groups. The shortest chest tube duration and length of stay were observed in the wedge resection + staple line covering ± other group (2.1 d; 95% CI, 1.4-2.9 and 3.3 d; 95% CI, 2.6-4.0, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The variability in reported outcomes and the lack of published multicenter randomized controlled trials highlights a need for more robust investigations into the optimal surgical technique in the management of PSP. Based on the limited quality studies available, this systematic review favors wedge resection + chemical pleurodesis and wedge resection + pleural abrasion + chemical pleurodesis in terms of recurrence rate after surgery for PSP.

Learning curve of single-incision thoracoscopic surgery for primary spontaneous pneumothorax

BACKGROUND

Single-incision thoracoscopic surgery (SITS) requires extensive time and practice to achieve satisfactory technical skills. The aim of this study was to evaluate the learning curves of SITS for primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP).

METHODS

This study included a total of 274 consecutive patients who underwent PSP surgery by a single operator between May 2011 and February 2014. During this period, SITS was applied as a routine approach. Learning curves were made by the cumulative sum (CUSUM) method using the number of cases and four surgical technique-related factors, including operation time, postoperative complication, non-SITS rate, and ipsilateral PSP recurrence.

RESULTS

Among the 274 patients, 16 patients who were presented with a previous 3-port wound scar or inadequate chest tube site before surgery were not eligible for SITS. Hence, SITS was attempted on 258 patients and performed successfully in 251 patients. For these successful SITS patients, the mean age was 22.9 ± 8.1 years, the mean operation time was 65.6 ± 22.2 min, the mean chest tube indwelling time was 1.5 ± 1.1 days, and the mean postoperative hospital stay was 1.7 ± 1.1 days. The mean operation time decreased from 84.0 to 47.6 min when a comparison was made between patients operated in the initial 6 months and the last 6 months of the study period. As revealed by the CUSUM technique, more than 50 % of the cases experienced an operation time of <70 min after the first 92 cases. After 57 cases, the postoperative complication rate was maintained at <5 %. The non-SITS rate was achieved to be lower than 5 % after 112 cases. The ipsilateral PSP recurrence rate was maintained at below 8 % after 102 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Although PSP is the most applicable scenario for the beginner of SITS, at least 100 cases of experience are needed to achieve optimal technical level.

Transareolar pulmonary bullectomy for primary spontaneous pneumothorax

BACKGROUND

Conventional 3-port video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery is the classic approach for the diagnosis and treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax. Transareolar pulmonary bullectomy rarely has been attempted. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of this novel minimally invasive technique in managing primary spontaneous pneumothorax.

METHODS

From January 2013 to December 2014, a total of 112 male patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax underwent transareolar pulmonary bullectomy by use of a 5-mm thoracoscope.

RESULTS

All procedures were performed successfully, with a mean operating time of 26.5 minutes. The mean length of transareolar incision for the main operation was 2.0 ± 0.2 cm, the mean length of incision for the camera port was 0.6 ± 0.1 cm, and the mean postoperative cosmetic score was 3.0 ± 0.8. All patients regained consciousness rapidly after surgery. One hundred seven patients (95.5%) were discharged on postoperative day 2 or 3, with the remainder discharged on postoperative day 4 or 5. Postoperative complications were minor. At 6 months postoperatively, there was no obvious surgical scar on the chest wall, and no patient complained of postoperative pain. No recurrent symptoms were observed. One-year follow-up revealed an excellent cosmetic result and degree of satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Transareolar pulmonary bullectomy is a safe and effective therapeutic procedure for primary spontaneous pneumothorax caused by pulmonary bullae. The incision is hidden in the areola with excellent cosmetic effects. This novel procedure shows promise as a treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax.

Single-port thoracoscopic surgery for pneumothorax under two-lung ventilation with carbon dioxide insufflation

BACKGROUND

The development of single-port thoracoscopic surgery and two-lung ventilation reduced the invasiveness of minor thoracic surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of single-port thoracoscopic bleb resection for primary spontaneous pneumothorax using two-lung ventilation with carbon dioxide insufflation.

METHODS

Between February 2009 and May 2014, 130 patients underwent single-port thoracoscopic bleb resection under two-lung ventilation with carbon dioxide insufflation. Access was gained using a commercial multiple-access single port through a 2.5-cm incision; carbon dioxide gas was insufflated through a port channel. A 5-mm thoracoscope, articulating endoscopic devices, and flexible endoscopic staplers were introduced through a multiple-access single port for bulla resection.

RESULTS

The mean time from endotracheal intubation to incision was 29.2±7.8 minutes, the mean operative time was 30.9±8.2 minutes, and the mean total anesthetic time was 75.5±14.4 minutes. There were no anesthesia-related complications or wound problems. The chest drain was removed after a mean of 3.7±1.4 days and patients were discharged without complications 4.8±1.5 days from the operative day. During a mean 7.5±10.1 months of follow-up, there were five recurrences (3.8%) in operated thorax.

CONCLUSIONS

The anesthetic strategy of single-lumen intubation with carbon dioxide gas insufflation can be a safe and feasible option for single-port thoracoscopic bulla resection as it represents the least invasive surgical option with the potential advantages of reducing operative time and one-lung ventilation-related complications without diminishing surgical outcomes.

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax: simultaneous treatment by bilateral non-intubated videothoracoscopy

OBJECTIVES

Through a retrospective study, we assessed the feasibility and safety of simultaneous bilateral thoracoscopic wedge resection of blebs or bullae for the treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) under thoracic epidural anaesthesia with spontaneous ventilation.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis involved a cohort of 37 consecutive patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral thoracoscopic bullectomy under spontaneous ventilation thoracic epidural anaesthesia (n = 15) or intubated general anaesthesia (n = 22) between July 2011 and September 2015. The perioperative data, short-term outcomes and recurrence rates of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

The two groups had comparable preoperative demographic profiles. There were no conversions to thoracotomy or intubated single-lung ventilation. The peak end-tidal carbon dioxide in the non-intubated group was significantly higher than that in the intubated group (mean: 48 vs 34 mmHg, P < 0.001). Both groups had comparable surgical duration, blood loss and lowest intraoperative pulse oxygen saturation level. Postoperatively, the two groups had comparable chest tube duration, volume of fluid administration, length of hospital stay and complication rates. No mortality occurred. The total anaesthesia cost in non-intubated group was significantly lower (mean: CNY 4584 vs 5649, P = 0.016). The mean follow-up was 23.6 ± 12.9 months in the non-intubated group and 21.1 ± 13.4 months in the intubated group. Two recurrent pneumothoraxes in 2 patients were observed after surgical procedures for PSP. One recurrence developed in the non-intubated group (7%) and one in the intubated group (5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous bilateral non-intubated thoracoscopic bullectomy is not only well tolerated and technically feasible but also a safe alternative for selected patients with simultaneous bilateral PSP or with high risk of contralateral recurrence.

Risk factors for recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax after thoracoscopic surgery

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax recurs at a certain rate after thoracoscopic surgery, and risk factors for that recurrence are in question. The medical records of 248 patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax who were followed for more than 2 years after thoracoscopic surgery were reviewed and retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis were used to identify possible risk factors. Twelve patients experienced the recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax. Patients who experienced the recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax were younger than patients who experienced no recurrence. A larger proportion of the patients who experienced recurrence did not undergo pleurodesis. The variables age, height, weight, body mass index, duration of air leakage, and pleurodesis (performed or not) with a p value less than 0.2 in univariate analysis were entered in multivariate analysis. A younger age and not undergoing pleurodesis were associated with a higher risk of postoperative ipsilateral recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax. Not undergoing pleurodesis and a younger age are possible risk factors for recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax after thoracoscopic surgery. Thoracic surgeons should pay more attention to pleurodesis, especially in younger patients.

The Presence of a Reticulated Trabecula-Like Structure Increases the Risk for the Recurrence of Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax after Thoracoscopic Bullectomy

INTRODUCTION

Deteriorated alveolar structure at the base of blebs and bullae is known as the reticulated trabecula-like structure. Its clinical significance in primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the structure on recurrence of PSP after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) bullectomy.

METHODS

Between April 2010 and March 2014, 80 cases of PSP in 76 patients who underwent VATS bullectomy using endoscopic staplers were included. The staple line was covered with polyglycolic acid sheets and fibrin glue. Cases were assigned to a normal alveolar structure (NAS) group (n = 54) and a reticulated trabecula-like structure (RT) group (n = 26) based on the histological analysis. Factors associated with recurrence were analysed using logistic regression.

RESULTS

The reticulated trabecula-like structure was significantly related to apical lung blebs. The recurrence rate of PSP was significantly higher in the RT group than in the NAS group (38.5% vs. 3.7%; P <0.001). On multivariate analysis, the reticulated trabecula-like structure was an independent factor for recurrence of PSP after VATS bullectomy.

CONCLUSION

The change of alveolar structure at the base of apical lung blebs would increase the risk for recurrence of PSP after VATS bullectomy.

The effect of pleural abrasion on the treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Pleural abrasion has been widely used to control the recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP). However, controversy still exists regarding the advantages and disadvantages of pleural abrasion compared with other interventions in preventing the recurrence of PSP.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched up to December 15, 2014 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the effects of pleural abrasion with those of other interventions in the treatment of PSP. The study outcomes included the PSP recurrence rate and the occurrence rate of adverse effects.

RESULTS

Mechanical pleural abrasion and apical pleurectomy after thoracoscopic stapled bullectomy exhibited similarly persistent postoperative air leak occurrence rates (p = 0.978) and 1-year PSP recurrence rates (p = 0.821), whereas pleural abrasion led to reduced residual chest pain and discomfort (p = 0.001) and a smaller rate of hemothorax (p = 0.036) than did apical pleurectomy. However, the addition of minocycline pleurodesis to pleural abrasion did not reduce the pneumothorax recurrence rate compared with apical pleurectomy (3.8% for both procedures) but was associated with fewer complications. There was no statistical difference in the pneumothorax recurrence rate between mechanical pleural abrasion and chemical pleurodesis with minocycline on either an intention-to-treat basis (4 of 42 versus 0 of 42, p = 0.12; Fisher exact test) or after exclusions (2 of 40 versus 0 of 42, p = 0.24; Fisher exact test). Pleural abrasion plus minocycline pleurodesis also did not reduce the pneumothorax recurrence rate compared with pleural abrasion alone (p = 0.055). Moreover, pleural abrasion plus minocycline pleurodesis was associated with more intense acute chest pain. The postoperative overall recurrence rate in patients who underwent staple line coverage with absorbable cellulose mesh and fibrin glue was similar to that with mechanical abrasion after thoracoscopic bullectomy (13.8% vs. 14.2%, respectively; p = 0.555), but staple line coverage resulted in less postoperative residual pain than mechanical abrasion (0.4% vs.3.2%; p<0.0001). Pleural abrasion after thoracoscopic wedge resection did not decrease the recurrence of pneumothorax compared with wedge resection alone (p = 0.791), but the intraoperative bleeding and postoperative pleural drainage rates were higher when pleural abrasion was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to resulting in the same pneumothorax recurrence rate, thoracoscopic pleural abrasion with or without minocycline pleurodesis is safer than apical pleurectomy in the treatment of PSP. However, minocycline pleurodesis with or without pleural abrasion is not any more effective than pleural abrasion alone. Moreover, additional mechanical abrasion is not safer than additional staple line coverage with absorbable cellulose mesh and fibrin glue after thoracoscopic bullectomy because of increased postoperative pain. Additionally, pleural abrasion after thoracoscopic wedge resection should not be recommended for routine application due to the greater incidence of adverse effects than wedge resection alone. However, further large-scale, well-designed RCTs are needed to confirm the best procedure.