Singap Med J
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The purpose of this study was to investigate the results of minimally invasive treatment modalities in early stage multiloculated empyema thoracis. ⋯ In patients with early stage multiloculated empyema, VATS deloculation and debridement is superior to tube thoracostomy alone and fibrinolitic therapy in reducing drainage time and hospital stay. It has a relatively high success rate without significant morbidity. Therefore, VATS decortication may be recommended as a first-line therapy in early stage multiloculated empyema thoracis.