Ultrasound in Diagnosis, Localization, and Treatment of Loculated Pleural Empyema

Abstract

Five patients were encountered in whom the differential diagnosis between loculated pleural fluid and pleural fibrosis was not apparent using conventional diagnostic technics. Ultrasound examination of the pleural space permitted unequivocal diagnosis of the presence of loculated pleural fluid, accurate localization of the empyema with establishment of the proximal and distal borders, and successful drainage of empyemas not entered during prior attempts. The use of ultrasound in the diagnosis, localization, and management of loculated pleural empyema has certain advantages over conventional technics.