Pleuroscopy: Update on Indications, Techniques, and Limitations

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review provides an overview of pleuroscopy including both its diagnostic and therapeutic use in pleural disease. Indications and technical aspects of pleuroscopy are discussed and compared to other diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for pleural effusions.Recent FindingsPleuroscopy is an established diagnostic modality for exudative pleural effusions. Recent studies have also evaluated its use for pleural infection. Newer instruments have maintained diagnostic sensitivity. Recent studies have compared it to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) as well as less invasive techniques for these indications.SummaryPleuroscopy is safe and effective for diagnosing exudative pleural effusions after nondiagnostic thoracentesis. Its sensitivity is compared favorably to that of less invasive procedures and is comparable to that of VATS for malignant pleural effusions. It is now being investigated as a method for treating complex pleural space infections, although more data is needed to clarify its role for this indication.
Source: Current Respiratory Care Reports - Category: Respiratory Medicine Source Type: research