Intra-pleural impedance sensor real-time tracking of pneumothorax in a porcine model of air leak

In patients with alveolar-to-pleural air leak due to recent surgery or trauma, clinicians tend to manage chest tubes with suction therapy. Non-suction therapy is associated with shorter chest tube duration but also a higher risk of pneumothorax. We sought to develop an intrapleural electrical impedance sensor for continuous, real-time monitoring of pneumothorax development in a porcine model of air leak as a means of promoting non-suction therapy. Using thoracoscopy, two chest tubes and the pleural impedance sensor were introduced into the pleural space of three pigs.
Source: Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery - Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Authors: Tags: THORACIC – Original Submission Source Type: research