Treatment and Complications of Pleural Effusion
The ‘ABC’ technique is used internationally. The three vital aspects of resuscitation are: A for airway; B for breathing and C for circulation. Thus, the patient’s airway should be patent, his breathing should be maintained and following this, his circulation should be maintained. Once the patient is stable, the underlying cause is searched for and treated.
Thoracentesis (mentioned in the previous section) may be used as a therapeutic aid in removing fluid and allowing the lung to expand and function. Tube thoracostomy (insertion of chest tube, ICD, intercostals drainage tube) may be placed to drain and treat empyemas (pus collections).
Chest physiotherapy may be required. If the underlying cause is left uncured, a
Complications of Pleural Effusion
Pleural effusion is a condition that compromises lung function by preventing its full expansion for breathing. A longstanding effusion may permanently decrease lung function; it may be associated with lung scarring. The effusion if uncured and allowed stand for a long time may get infected leading to empyema (accumulation of pus).
Thoracentesis involves placing needles into the pleural space and hence there is always a risk of pneumothorax (entry of air).
