Pleurodesis

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 - 

• Chest pain
• Cough
• Fever
• Shortness of breath

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 -

• Do not eat or drink 8 to 9 hours prior to the surgery. It is generally recommended not to take any meal post-midnight. 
• Inform your doctor of any ongoing medications and history of an allergic reaction to anesthesia to avoid complications during the procedure 
• Discuss your history of chronic medical condition(s) and surgical procedures with the doctor
• Stop smoking and consuming alcohol a week before the surgery as they can increase the recovery time
• Inform your doctor in case you have a history of bleeding disorders
• Wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothes which do not put pressure on the surgical site
• Take antibiotics or prescribed medications prior to the surgery as directed by the doctor

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 - 

• Taking adequate rest - After pleurodesis, you may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue, which can last for a few days to a few weeks. It is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities during this time to allow your body to heal.
• Take your medications - The doctor may provide specific instructions on how to care of the surgical site, including wound care, medication, and follow-up appointments. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.
• Pain management - You may experience pain or discomfort after pleurodesis, which can be managed with pain medications prescribed by your doctor.
• Regular check-ups - Pleurodesis is generally a safe procedure, but like any surgery, it carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and breathing difficulties. Be sure to monitor your symptoms closely and keep in touch with the doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms.
• Gradually resume normal activities - As you start to feel better, you can gradually resume your normal activities, but be sure to check with your doctor before engaging in any strenuous activities or exercises.

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 -

• Highly qualified and experienced cardiologists
• Cutting-edge technology and the latest medical equipment
• The transparent pricing structure for cost-effective treatment. 
• Patient-centric high-quality care for a high success rate