Decortication in chronic pleural empyema

Abstract

Objective: The aim of present study is to evaluate the role of decortication in management of chronic pleural empyema. Results: Out of 25 patients, who were subjected to decortication, 24 patients were male and one was female with average age 33 years (range 19-50 years). The mean duration of symptoms was 6.4 months (range 1-24 months). The mean duration of preoperative antitubercular treatment (ATT) was 5 months (range 2 weeks to 12 months). Preoperative spirometry showed moderate restriction (FVC -53%, FEV1 -61.7%). Postoperatively all patients showed good recovery. Spirometry after decortication showed satisfactory improvement (FVC-68%, FEV1 -72.8%). Only one patient had complication in the form of left subclavian artery injury. Conclusion: Decortication is the safe and effective treatment for chronic organized empyema, enabling complete expansion of the lung.