Comparison of large- and small-bore intercostal catheters in the management of spontaneous pneumothorax

Update on the management of first episode primary spontaneous pneumothorax in an Australian hospital network

International guidelines and recent research favour a less interventional approach to primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP). A retrospective clinical audit of 68 first-episode PSP was undertaken at a major tertiary teaching hospital network in Melbourne, Australia, found that most patients presenting with a moderate to large pneumothorax received initial intercostal catheter insertion (56%), though many (81%) would have met criteria for consideration of conservative management. The results suggest continued deviation from clinical guidelines in the management of PSP.

Percutaneous Chest Tube for Pleural Effusion and Pneumothorax

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

Retrospective Evaluation of the Use and Complications of Small-Bore Wire-Guided Thoracostomy Tubes in Dogs and Cats: 156 Cases (2007–2019)

Background

Small-bore wire-guided thoracostomy tubes (SBWGTT) are commonly used in small animals for management of pleural space disease. We aimed to evaluate the indications, placement locations, types of complications, and complication rate of small-bore wire-guided thoracostomy tube placements in dogs and cats in a university setting.

Methods

Electronic medical records of patients that underwent SBWGTT placement were reviewed. Signalment, disease, outcome, indication for thoracostomy tube, placement location, number of attempts, diagnostic imaging, number, and type (insertional, technical, and infectious) of complications were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine risk factors for complications.

Results

A hundred fifty-six cases were identified between 2007 and 2019. Traumatic pneumothorax (33%), pyothorax (25%), and spontaneous pneumothorax (16%) were the most common indications for placement of a SBWGTT. Complications developed in 50 cases (32%). Technical and insertional complications accounted for 21.7% and 14.1% of all cases. Infectious complications were rare with 3.1% of all cases. Pneumothorax (19%), soft tissue swelling at insertion site (14%), and kinking of the chest tube (13%) were most common. Accidental lung perforation was reported in 5/50 complications (7%). Multiple chest tube placement attempts were associated with complications (OR = 6.01 CI: 2.13 to 16.93 p = 0.0007).

Conclusions

Complications of SBWGTT placement occurred in one third of cases. Serious complications such as accidental lung perforation was reported in two cases. Complications were associated with number of attempts.

Safety and Efficacy of Manual Aspiration Via Small Bore Chest Tube in Facilitating the Outpatient Management of Transbronchial Biopsy-related Iatrogenic Pneumothorax

BACKGROUND

Iatrogenic pneumothorax complicates transbronchial biopsies with a prevalence of 1% to 6%. Conventional treatment consists of inpatient management with chest tube drainage. While aspiration techniques have been investigated in the management of both primary spontaneous and transthoracic lung biopsy-induced pneumothorax, its role in the management of transbronchial biopsy-iatrogenic pneumothorax (TBBX-IP) is undefined. An appealing treatment alternative for TBBX-IP may exist in the placement of a small bore chest tube (SBCT) followed by a manual aspiration (MA) technique promoting earlier SBCT removal to facilitate outpatient management. To our knowledge, no study exists evaluating the efficacy of MA via a SBCT performed specifically for TBBX-IP.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Prospective evaluation of the efficacy of a protocolized pathway incorporating MA through a SBCT for the outpatient management of TBBX-IP. Primary outcome was the clinicoradiographic resolution of TBBX-IP avoiding hospitalizations.

RESULTS

A total of 763 biopsies performed; 31 complicated by TBBX-IP, 18 qualified for intervention. Sixteen were outpatients, 2 inpatients. Thirteen (81.25%) of the 16 outpatients were successfully treated with MA via SBCT and did not require admission. Twelve (75%) of these 13 had SBCT removed, 1 patient was discharged with SBCT and removed in 24 hours. Of the 18 patients requiring intervention, 13 (72.2%) were successfully treated with MA via SBCT enabling removal of SBCT. No patient required reintervention.

CONCLUSION

MA via SBCT represents a safe and viable management approach of TBBX-IP promoting earlier SBCT removal and decreased hospitalizations. Our results challenge conventional management of TBBX-IP warranting further investigation.

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.

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

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

The effectiveness of small-bore intercostal catheters versus large-bore chest tubes in the management of pleural disease with the systematic review of literature

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of small-bore intercostal catheters (SB ICCs; 10-14 Fr) to large-bore intercostal tubes (LB ICTs; >20 Fr) in the management of pleural diseases.

METHODS

A total of 52 patients (42 males) with a mean age of 55 ± 23 years undergoing pleural intervention were included in the analysis. Twenty-five patients (48.1%) had pneumothorax and rest (51.9%) had pleural effusion. Half of the patients underwent SB ICC (mean age: 63 ± 20 years) and the remaining 26 underwent LB ICT (mean age: 47 ± 25 years).

RESULTS

SB ICCs were predominantly used in patients with primary pleural effusion and LB ICTs in patients presenting with pneumothorax. Failures were in <20% of SB ICC patients (mainly from loculation) and in <30% with LB ICT patients (from persistent airleak) - difference that was not statistically significant. In both groups, no deaths or major complications directly related to the procedure were observed. However, the proportion that needed surgery was significantly different in two cohorts (18.5% OF SB ICC and 42.3% of LB ICT cohorts). The ICC dwell time was less in SB ICC (5 ± 4 days), compared to LB ICT (8 ± 6 days). SB ICCs were associated with less pain and seem to be tolerated better by the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In well-supervised tertiary hospital setting, SB ICCs are as effective as LB ICTs with better patient tolerance, reduced dwell time, and reduced likelihood for surgical intervention.

Efficacy and analgesic use during the therapy of iatrogenic pneumothorax using Pleuralvent™ and Chest Tube (ASPIRATE): A randomised controlled trial protocol

BACKGROUND

Iatrogenic pneumothorax is a common complication of various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as transbronchial lung biopsies. The classical mode of treatment is chest tube insertion. Pneumothorax devices are now available on the market but there is a dearth of data on their efficacy to treat iatrogenic pneumothorax. It is important to provide such data as the pathophysiology of iatrogenic pneumothorax is different in comparison with spontaneous pneumothorax for which some data is available.

METHODS

This is a randomized, non-blinded, actively controlled trial of effectivity of iatrogenic pneumothorax treatment using the Pleuralvent™ device and chest tube insertion (16F). The secondary aim is to compare the overall pain level and the need for analgesic treatment in both treatment arms. We are planning to enrol 126 patients (63 in each treatment arm).

DISCUSSION

Preliminary results showed similar effectivity of the Pleuralvent™ system compared to large bore chest tube insertion. This randomized clinical trial should confirm these results and prove that the Pleuralvent™ system is an effective way of treatment of patients with iatrogenic pneumothorax. If Pleuralvent™ proves to have the same level of efficacy, it may become the standard of care of patients with iatrogenic pneumothorax.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03700554.

[Different approaches to chest drainage in the management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax]

Drainage of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) may be managed by different techniques and with different types of drain. It is mainly performed in the pneumology department or in the emergency department. The aim of the study was to evaluate the factors that influence the success of PSP drainage. This retrospective, monocentric study performed in University Hospital of Toulouse, included patients with a first episode of PSP requiring drainage. The primary outcome was the rate of success according to the techniques of drainage. Data on the size of the drain (>14F or<14F), the drainage technique (small bore catheter or chest tube drainage) and the drainage department (pneumology or emergency) were collected. One hundred and twenty-four patients had a drainage between 2014 and 2016: the late recurrence free success rate was 59% (n=73). Compared with emergency, drainage in pneumology increased the success rate threefold regardless of the drainage technique (P=0.0001) The success rate was similar whatever the technique used (Seldinger or classic technique) (P=0.31). Success and complications rates were similar whether the drain was large (>14F) or small (<14F) (respectively P=0.99 and P=0.58). In our study, the drainage of PSP in the pneumology department, with a small caliber inserted by the Seldinger technique, was associated with a significantly higher success rate.

Effectiveness of Bedside Lung Ultrasound for Clinical Follow-Up of Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax Patients Treated With Tube Thoracostomy

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) is a common cause of presentation to emergency departments and subsequent hospitalization. Patients with large PSP are treated with tube thoracostomy (TT) and followed up with x-rays. In this study, we investigated the efficiency of bedside ultrasound and compared it with x-ray imaging for the clinical follow-up of PSP patients treated with TT.This is a prospective observational study. After ethical committee approval and written informed consent were obtained, patients who were treated with TT because of PSP were screened. In the follow-up of these patients, a bedside lung ultrasound (BLUS) was performed before every chest x-ray by an emergency physician experienced in performing BLUSs. The performance of BLUSs in detecting free air in the pleural cavity was compared statistically with that of x-rays.Sixty-two patients were enrolled in the study. In total, 166 BLUSs and x-rays were compared. The sensitivity of BLUS was 95.65% (85.20-99.50), specificity was 100% (79.40-100.00), positive predictive value was 100% (92-100), negative predictive value was 88.90% (65.30-98.60), and the area under the curve was 0.99 (0.974-1.000; P = 0.001) for detecting air in the pleural cavity. These results showed that there was no statistically significant difference between BLUS and x-ray methods for detecting air in the pleural cavity.Our study revealed that BLUS can be safely used for the follow-up of PSP patients treated with TT to determine if air is present in the pleural cavity. Further studies are needed.

New insights and improved strategies for the management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax

The pathophysiology and management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) are a subject of debate. Despite advances in the understanding of its etiopathogenesis and improvements in its management, implementation in clinical practice is suboptimal. In this manuscript, we review the recent literature with a focus on PSP pathophysiology and management. Blebs and emphysema-like changes (ELC) are thought to contribute to the pathophysiology of PSP but cannot explain all cases. Recent studies emphasize the role of a diffuse porosity of the visceral pleura. Others found a relationship between smoking, occurrence of a PSP and bronchiolitis, which could be the initial pathological process leading to ELC development. Recent or ongoing studies challenge the need to systematically remove air from the pleural cavity of stable patients, introducing conservative management as a valuable therapeutic option. Evidence is growing in favour of needle aspiration instead of chest tube insertion, when air evacuation is needed. In addition, ambulatory management is considered as a successful approach in meta-analyses and is under exploration in a large randomized study. Because of a high recurrence rate of PSP, the benefit of performing a pleurodesis at first occurrence is under evaluation with interesting but not generalizable results. Better identification of 'at risk patients' is needed to improve the investigation strategy. Finally, recent publications confirm the efficacy, security and cost-effectiveness of graded talc poudrage pleurodesis to prevent PSP recurrence. In conclusion, PSP pathophysiology and management are still under investigation. The results of recently published and ongoing studies should be more widely implemented in clinical practice.

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

BACKGROUND

The optimal initial treatment approach for pneumothorax remains controversial. This systemic review and meta-analysis investigated the effectiveness of small-bore pigtail catheter (PC) drainage compared with that of large-bore chest tube (LBCT) drainage as the initial treatment approach for all subtypes of pneumothorax.

METHODS

PubMed and Embase were systematically searched for observational studies and randomized controlled trials published up to October 9, 2017, that compared PC and LBCT as the initial treatment for pneumothorax. The investigative outcomes included success rates, recurrence rates, complication rates, drainage duration, and hospital stay.

RESULTS

Of the 11 included studies (875 patients), the success rate was similar in the PC (79.84%) and LBCT (82.87%) groups, with a risk ratio of 0.99 (95% CI, 0.93 to 1.05; I² = 0%). Specifically, PC drainage was associated with a significantly lower complication rate following spontaneous pneumothorax than LBCT drainage (Peto odds ratio: 0.49 [95% CI, 0.28 to 0.85]; I² = 29%). In the spontaneous subgroup, PC drainage was associated with a significantly shorter drainage duration (mean difference, -1.51 [95% CI, -2.93 to -0.09]) and hospital stay (mean difference: -2.54 [95% CI, -3.16 to -1.92]; P < .001) than the LBCT group.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, results of the meta-analysis suggest PC drainage may be considered as the initial treatment option for patients with primary or secondary spontaneous pneumothorax. Ideally, randomized controlled trials are needed to compare PC vs LBCT among different subgroups of patients with pneumothorax, which may ultimately improve clinical care and management for these patients.

TRIAL REGISTRY

PROSPERO; No.: CRD42017078481; URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/.

Randomised comparison of needle aspiration and chest tube drainage in spontaneous pneumothorax

Guidelines on spontaneous pneumothorax are contradictory as to intervention between needle aspiration (NA) and chest tube drainage (CTD). Studies show poor adherence to guidelines.

Three Norwegian hospitals included patients with primary (PSP) and secondary (SSP) spontaneous pneumothorax. Patients underwent NA or CTD as the primary intervention. The main outcome was duration of hospital stay. Secondary outcomes were immediate- and 1-week success rates and complications.

127 patients were included, including 48 patients with SSP. 65 patients underwent NA, 63 patients CTD. Median (interquartile range) hospital stay was significantly shorter for NA: 2.4 days (1.2–4.7 days), compared with CTD: 4.6 days (2.3–7.8 days) (p<0.001). The corresponding figures for the SSP subgroup were 2.54 days (1.17–7.79 days) compared with 5.53 days (3.65–9.21 days) (p=0.049) for NA and CTD, respectively. Immediate success rates were 69% for NA compared with 32% for CTD (p<0.001). The positive effect of NA remained significant in sub-analyses for SSP. There was no significant difference in 1-week success rates. Complications occurred only during the CTD-treatment.

Our study shows shorter hospital stay and higher immediate success rates for NA compared with CTD. Subgroup analyses also show clear benefits for NA for both PSP and SSP.

The Size of Spontaneous Pneumothorax is a Predictor of Unsuccessful Catheter Drainage

Small-bore thoracic catheter drainage is recommended for a first large or symptomatic episode of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP). However, one-third of these patients require a second procedure because of treatment failure. We investigated the factors associated with unsuccessful pigtail catheter drainage in the management of PSP. In this retrospective study, using a prospectively collected database, we enrolled 253 consecutive patients with PSP who underwent pigtail catheter drainage as initial treatment, from December 2006 to June 2011. The chest radiograph was reviewed in each case and pneumothorax size was estimated according to Light’s index. Other demographic factors and laboratory data were collected via chart review. Pigtail catheter drainage was successful in 71.9% (182/253) of cases. Treatment failure rates were 42.9%, 25.9%, and 15.5% in patients with pneumothorax sizes of >62.6%, 38–62.6%, and <38%, respectively (tertiles). An alternative cut-off point of 92.5% lung collapse was defined using a classification and regression tree method. According to the multivariate analysis, a large-size pneumothorax (p = 0.009) was the only significant predictor of initial pigtail catheter drainage treatment failure in patients with PSP. Early surgical treatment could be considered for those patients with a large-sized pneumothorax.

The influence of chest tube size and position in primary spontaneous pneumothorax

BACKGROUND

Optimal chest tube position in the pleural cavity is largely unexplored for the treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP). We investigated whether type, size and position of chest tubes influenced duration of treatment for PSP.

METHODS

A retrospective follow-up study of all patients admitted with PSP over a 5-year period. Traumatic, iatrogenic and secondary pneumothoraxes were excluded. Gender, age, smoking habits, type and size of chest tube used (pigtail catheter or surgical chest tube) were recorded from the patients' charts. All chest X-rays upon admittance and immediately following chest tube placement were retrieved and re-evaluated for size of pneumothorax (categorized into five groups) and location of the chest tube tip (categorized as upper, middle or lower third of the pleural cavity). All data were analysed in a Cox proportional hazards regression model.

RESULTS

We identified 134 patients with PSP. Baseline characteristics were similar for patients treated with surgical chest tubes and pigtail catheters. Chest tube duration was not significantly influenced by position of the chest tube tip, but was significantly longer in females (P<0.01), patients <30 years (P=0.01), larger pneumothoraxes (P<0.01), use of surgical chest tubes (P=0.03) and a history of previous pneumothorax (P=0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Contrary to common belief and guidelines recommendation the position of a chest tube in the pleural cavity did not significantly influence chest tube duration, but it was significantly longer in patients who were treated with a surgical chest tube.

Chest Drain Size: the Debate Continues

Purpose of review

Small-bore chest tubes are widely used in the management of common pleural disease. Guidelines suggest that patients with malignant pleural effusions, pneumothorax and pleural infection may be successfully managed with small-bore drains. However, good quality data is often lacking. This article reviews the evidence for the treatment efficacy and potential adverse effects of different chest tube sizes.

Recent findings

In a large randomised study, the small difference in pain scores between large and small drains was not clinically significant. However, small-bore chest tubes commonly suffer from blockage or inadvertent removal, and may not be as effective in providing successful pleurodesis for malignant pleural effusions.

Summary

Although they may be effective in managing pleural infection, and less painful than large drains, small bore drains may be less effective for pleurodesis.

Spontaneous pneumothorax: time to rethink management?

There are substantial differences in international guidelines for the management of pneumothorax and much geographical variation in clinical practice. These discrepancies have, in part, been driven by a paucity of high-quality evidence. Advances in diagnostic techniques have increasingly allowed the identification of lung abnormalities in patients previously labelled as having primary spontaneous pneumothorax, a group in whom recommended management differs from those with clinically apparent lung disease. Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying pneumothorax are now better understood and this may have implications for clinical management. Risk stratification of patients at baseline could help to identify subgroups at higher risk of recurrent pneumothorax who would benefit from early intervention to prevent recurrence. Further research into the roles of conservative management, Heimlich valves, digital air-leak monitoring, and pleurodesis at first presentation might lead to an increase in their use in the future.

Conservative versus interventional management for primary spontaneous pneumothorax in adults

BACKGROUND

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax is widely managed according to size with interventional techniques based on practice guidelines. Interventional management is not without complications and observational data suggest conservative management works. The current guidelines are based on expert consensus rather than evidence, and a systematic review may help in identifying evidence for this practice.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the review is to compare conservative and interventional treatments of adult primary spontaneous pneumothorax for outcomes of clinical efficacy, tolerability and safety.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), (The Cochrane Library, Issue 6, 2014); MEDLINE via Ovid SP (1920 to 26th June 2014); EMBASE via Ovid SP (1947 to 26th June 2014); CINAHL via EBSCO host (1980 to 26th June 2014); and ISI Web of Science (1945 to 26th June 2014). We searched ongoing trials via the relevant databases and contacted authors. We also searched the 'grey literature'.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and we accepted quasi-RCTs if a systematic method of allocation was used. Participants were limited to adults aged 18 to 50 years, with their first symptomatic primary spontaneous pneumothorax with radiological evidence and no underlying lung disease.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two of five authors independently reviewed all studies in the search criteria and made inclusions and exclusions according to the selection criteria. No statistical methods were necessary as there were no included trials.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 358 studies with duplicates removed. There were three potentially relevant studies that we excluded as they were not randomized controlled trials. There was one ongoing trial that was relevant and we contacted the authors and confirmed the study is ongoing at June 2014. We will update this review when this ongoing study is completed.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There are no completed randomized controlled trials comparing conservative and interventional management for primary spontaneous pneumothorax in adults. There is a lack of high-quality evidence for current guidelines in management and a need for randomized controlled trials comparing conservative and interventional management for this condition.

The role of interventional therapy for pleural diseases

Pleural diseases encompass a vast and heterogeneous group of diseases that have traditionally received relatively little attention from researchers, resulting in empiric approaches to patient management based largely on expert opinions and anecdotal evidence. Yet, paradoxically, pleural diseases represent a considerable burden for patients, providers, and the healthcare system as a whole, with a rising incidence of malignant pleural effusions and pleural space infections, in increasingly complex patients. Fortunately, the last decade has witnessed unprecedented research efforts from the pleural community, which have resulted in substantial advances in risk-stratification, patient selection, treatment efficacy and the development of evidence-based recommendations ultimately leading to improved patient care. In this review, we will present a summary of the current evidence for the management of pleural diseases with an emphasis on interventional procedures, and highlight the need for future research efforts in the field of malignant pleural effusions, pleural space infections and pneumothorax.

Straightening out chest tubes: what size, what type, and when

Although chest tube placement is one of the most common procedures in managing patients with pleural disease, it is not clear what size and type of chest tube is indicated for various conditions. Chest tubes can be divided into small- (≤14 French [Fr]) and large-bore (>14 Fr) and can be placed by blunt dissection, guidewire (Seldinger), or trocar guidance. Recently a trend has been seen toward using smaller chest tubes for most indications, given their relative ease and patient comfort. This article summarizes the rationale for using different chest tubes depending on the clinical scenario.

Outcome of spontaneous and iatrogenic pneumothoraces managed with small-bore chest tubes

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the efficacy of management of iatrogenic pneumothoraces with small-bore chest tubes. The aim of this study was to assess the outcome of iatrogenic pneumothoraces requiring drainage managed with a small-bore chest tube and to compare the results to spontaneous pneumothoraces treated in the same unit with the same device. The primary outcome was requirement of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for drainage failure; secondary outcomes were length of drainage and number of inserted chest tubes.

METHODS

Patients with pneumothorax admitted between 1997 and 2007 were retrospectively identified. Traumatic pneumothoraces and those occurring under mechanical ventilation were excluded. All pneumothoraces were drained using the same small-bore chest tube (8 French) according to our local protocol.

RESULTS

Five hundred sixty-one pneumothoraces were analysed, 431 (76.8%) were spontaneous pneumothoraces and 130 (23.2%) were iatrogenic. Iatrogenic pneumothoraces were associated with less requirement of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for drainage failure [adjusted odds ratio= 0.24 (0.04, 0.86)]. Length of drainage of iatrogenic pneumothoraces was longer than for primary spontaneous pneumothoraces (3.8 ± 3.1 vs. 2.7 ± 1.8 days, P < 0.001) and shorter than for secondary spontaneous pneumothoraces (4.6 ± 2.3 days, P = 0.004). Number of inserted chest tubes per patient was not significantly different according to pneumothoraces' aetiology.

CONCLUSION

Small-bore chest tubes are feasible for treatment of iatrogenic pneumothoraces and have a better rate of success and slightly longer drainage duration than when used for spontaneous pneumothoraces.

Pleural controversy: optimal chest tube size for drainage

In recent years, a higher and higher percentage of patients with pleural effusions or pneumothorax are being treated with small-bore (10-14 F) chest tubes rather than large-bore (>20 F). However, there are very few randomized controlled studies comparing the efficacy and complication rates with the small- and large-bore catheters. Moreover, the randomized trials that are available have flaws in their design. The advantages of the small-bore catheters are that they are easier to insert and there is less pain with their insertion while they are in place. The placement of the small-bore catheters is probably more optimal when placement is done with ultrasound guidance. Small-bore chest tubes are recommended when pleurodesis is performed. The success of the small-bore indwelling tunnelled catheters that are left in place for weeks documents that the small-bore tubes do not commonly become obstructed with fibrin. Patients with complicated parapneumonic effusions are probably best managed with small-bore catheters even when the pleural fluid is purulent. Patients with haemothorax are best managed with large-bore catheters because of blood clots and the high volume of pleural fluid. Most patients with pneumothorax can be managed with aspiration or small-bore chest tubes. If these fail, a large-bore chest tube may be necessary. Patients on mechanical ventilation with barotrauma induced pneumothoraces are best managed with large-bore chest tubes.

Ultrasound-guided pigtail catheters for drainage of various pleural diseases

OBJECTIVE

Little is known about the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided pigtail catheters for the management of various pleural diseases in the emergency department, ward, and intensive care unit.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study in a university hospital during a 1-year interval.

RESULTS

A total of 276 patients (178 men and 98 women) underwent 332 pigtail catheters (the drain size ranged from 10F to 16F) under ultrasound guidance. The mean ± SEM patient age was 59 ± 18 years, and mean duration of drainage was 6.1 ± 2 days. A total of 64 drains (19.2%) were inserted for pneumothoraces; 98 drains (29.5%), for malignant effusions; 119 drains (35.8%), for parapneumonic effusions/empyemas; and 38 drains (11.4%), for massive transudate pleural effusions. The overall success rate was 72.9%. The success rate was highest when the drain was used to treat massive transudate effusions (81.6%) and malignant pleural effusions (75.5%), followed by parapneumonic effusions/empyemas (72.2%), hemothoraces (66.6%), and pneumothoraces (64.0%). Only 10 (3.0%) drains had complications due to the procedure, including infection (n = 4, 1.2%), dislodgment (n = 4, 1.2%), wound bleeding at the pigtail catheter puncture area complicated with hemothoraces (n = 1, 0.3%), and lung puncture (n = 1, 0.3%). There was no significant difference in success rate when different catheter sizes were used to treat pleural diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-guided pigtail catheters provide a safe and effective method of draining various pleural diseases. We strongly suggest that ultrasound-guided pigtail catheters be considered as the initial draining method for a variety of pleural diseases.

Evidence-based management of paediatric primary spontaneous pneumothorax

The exact incidence of paediatric primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) is unclear, although PSP incidence in the general population is between 6 and 18 per 100,000. PSP has been reported throughout the paediatric age range. A potential genetic predisposition for familial cases has been recently identified. Whilst there is universal consensus on the management of tension pneumothorax, lack of agreement and consistency exists across a wide range of management issues for other aspects of PSP management. Paediatric PSP may have a higher recurrence rate than adult PSP, and the presence of apical lung cysts or bullae is not predictive of recurrence. The decision for surgical intervention should be based on documented recurrence. There is a lack of paediatric evidence to guide management decisions, and extrapolation of predominantly adult data to younger age groups should not be encouraged. Given the relatively low apparent incidence, a multicentre approach to future research is required in order to generate the evidence required for informed management of PSP in children.

Review of management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax: is the best evidence clearer 15 years on?

In 1993 Emergency Medicine Australasia (then Emergency Medicine [Fremantle]) published a therapeutic review on the management of spontaneous pneumothorax. That review found a lack of high-quality evidence on which to base management decisions and a variety of therapeutic options without clear superiority one over another. Now, almost 15 years later, the present paper aims to revisit the evidence base to see if management choices are clearer.

Advanced Practice Organ Procurement Techniques: Insertion of Thoracic Catheters

Advanced practice coordinators who perform procedures that may be associated with complications must be proficient at treating those untoward events. This discussion reviews the diagnosis of a pneumothorax as a complication of insertion of a central venous catheter and mechanical ventilation. The method for inserting the Wayne Pneumothorax Set thoracic catheter is presented. This and similar commercially available catheters may also be used to evacuate a pleural effusion or nonclotted blood from the thorax for diagnostic purposes or when treating hypoxemia. It is essential for organ procurement organizations to provide appropriate training and quality assurance programs to ensure safe practice.

Prediction of recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax: CT scan findings versus management features

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association between primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) recurrence and pulmonary CT scan findings, and other variables pertaining to clinical presentation and management.

METHODS

Consecutive patients hospitalized for the first episode of PSP and treated by various strategies including chest tube or pleurocatheter drainage and, in persistent pneumothorax, by chemical or surgical pleurodesis. All patients had a pulmonary CT scan examination in the week following hospital discharge in order to calculate a score combining distribution, number and size of dystrophic pulmonary abnormalities. This score as well as other pertinent clinical and therapeutic parameters were compared between patients who ultimately experienced PSP recurrence and those who did not.

RESULTS

Eighty patients (mean age: 27+/-7 yr) were admitted for PSP and had a chest drainage with either a drain or pleurocatheter. Chest drainage and hospitalization durations were 4.7+/-3.2 and 6.2+/-3.5 days, respectively. Sixteen patients required chemical pleurodesis. Dystrophic bullae were present in CT scans in 72.5% patients. After a mean follow up of 34+/-20 months, 15 out of the 80 patients (19%) had a PSP recurrence. Multivariate statistical analysis disclosed the use of pleurocatheter (OR=5; 95% CI: 1.4-20; P=0.02) and of chemical pleurodesis (OR=8; 95% CI: 1.5-47; P=0.015) as independent predictors of PSP recurrence. The severity of dystrophic lesions inferred from the dystrophic score was not statistically associated with the risk of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Dystrophic lesions are frequently present in PSP. They are not associated with an increased risk of recurrence.

Modified Central Line for Pneumothorax

Pneumothoraxes, whether spontaneous or iatrogenic, frequently require drainage. Although the recent trend has been toward a catheter-based approach, many thoracic surgeons continue to use chest tubes. Tube thoracostomy is associated with significant pain at the time of insertion and during continued drainage. Pneumothorax catheters are less painful but more expensive, and some have been associated with significant failure. After disappointing experience with pneumothorax catheters, we have modified a central line to use in lieu of a pneumothorax kit. We have found this technique to be effective, safe, reliable, and inexpensive.