Pleurodesis is a medical procedure used to treat recurrent pleural effusions or pneumothorax. It involves the induction of a controlled inflammatory response between the pleural layers (lining of the lungs) to create adhesions, which prevent further accumulation of fluid or air in the pleural space. Pleurodesis is generally considered safe and effective for treating recurrent pleural effusions or pneumothorax. However, it is important to discuss your symptoms with the doctor to assess the risks and benefits of the surgery and reduce complications. Consult us to book an appointment with some of the best surgeons for effective treatment.
Pleural effusion usually does not have any symptoms but there may be some symptoms of an underlying disease such as cough or fever. Depending on the type of pleural, the symptoms may worsen causing the following symptoms in patients -
Get in touch with a doctor or seek medical assistance in case your symptoms do not improve with time or get worse.
Before the Pleurodesis procedure, initial consultation with the specialist involves examining the severity of the symptoms and detecting the primary cause of the condition. Once the doctor is convinced that you are an eligible candidate for the procedure, you can have discussions regarding the technique, risks, and recovery.
The doctor discusses the procedure and the possible outcomes depending on the type of Pleurodesis. Subsequently, the surgeon provides pre-surgery tips to guide you before the procedure and prevent any complications. Here are some pre-surgery instructions which can help you prepare for the Pleurodesis procedure to reduce the risk of complications during the surgery -
Pleurodesis procedure can be performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient's condition and preferences. The procedure can be done using thoracoscopy (a minimally invasive surgery that involves the use of a small camera and instruments inserted through small incisions) or by chest tube insertion.
During the procedure, the pleural space is first drained of any accumulated fluid or air. Then, a substance, such as a talc or a doxycycline, is introduced into the pleural cavity through a chest tube. This substance irritates the pleura and triggers inflammation, causing the two layers of the pleura to stick together and seal the pleural space. Over time, the body absorbs the fluid, and the adhesions created during pleurodesis prevent further accumulation of fluid or air.
Recovery after a pleurodesis procedure usually depends on the severity of the condition and the surgical expertise of the surgeon. However, with proper monitoring and following post-operative tips, most people can resume their normal activities within a few weeks to a few months after the procedure. Also, the recovery process after pleurodesis depends on the individual case and the specific technique used, but generally, the following steps can be helpful -
BM Birla Heart Research Centre is a super speciality hospital with modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art technology in Kolkata. BM Birla Heart Research Centre is the only hospital offering super speciality cardiac care in the entire eastern India. With a 200+ bed capacity, cardiac rehabilitation services, cath labs and modular OTs, BM Birla Heart Research Centre has made a mark with its singular focus on the treatment of a variety of cardiac ailments. Here are a few advantages of choosing BM Birla Heart Research Centre for pleurodesis surgery in Kolkata -
Possible side effects of the pleurodesis procedure include -
The surgeon uses a tube which is put in the chest to drain away the fluid or air which is collected in the pleural space. Once the chest is completely drained into a collection bag, a pleurodesis drug is put into the chest cavity through the drain.
There are negligible chances of lung collapse after pleurodesis depending on the medical health of the patient and the severity of the disease. Also, depending on the surgical expertise of the patient, the effectiveness of the procedure may vary.
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