Evaluation and management of persistent air leak

Expert Rev Respir Med. 2023 Oct 19. doi: 10.1080/17476348.2023.2272701. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTINTRODUCTION: Persistent air leaks (PAL) represent a challenging clinical problem for which there is not a clear consensus to guide optimal management. PAL is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and increased length of hospital stay. There are a variety of surgical and non-surgical management options available.AREAS COVERED: This narrative review describes the current evidence for PAL management including surgical approach, autologous blood patch pleurodesis, chemical pleurodesis, endobronchial valves, and one-way valves. Additionally, emerging topics such as drainage-dependent air leak and intensive care unit management are described.Expert opinion: There has been considerable progress in understanding the pathophysiology of PAL and growing evidence to support the various non-surgical treatment modalities. Increased recognition of drainage-dependent persistent air leaks offers the opportunity to decrease the number of patients requiring additional invasive treatment. Randomized control trials are needed to guide optimal management.PMID:37855445 | DOI:10.1080/17476348.2023.2272701
Source: Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Source Type: research