Revista clínica espanõla
The most recent articles from:
-
A parapneumonic effusion should be drained if it is large (≥ 1/2 of the hemithorax), loculated, frank pus is obtained, if the fluid is non-purulent fluid but has a low pH (< 7.20) or if the culture is positive. Instillation of fibrinolytics and DNase thorough the chest catheter in locutated effusions and empyemas is currently recommended. ⋯ Pleural ultrasonography confirms the presence of air or fluid in the pleural space and serves to guide any pleural procedure (e.g., thoracentesis, chest tubes). The use of small-bore 12F catheters inserted via the percutaneous Seldinger technique under ultrasonography guidance is a safe and effective procedure in complicated parapneumonic effusions/empyema and most pneumothoraces.