Innovative Technique for Percutaneous Catheter Guided Drainage of Symptomatic Pleural Effusion in Obese Patients with Uncorrectable Coagulopathy: Safety and Feasibility

Abstract

Background:Current data regarding high risk catheter thoracocentesis is limited with this background, the aim of present study was to evaluate safety and feasibility of Innovative technique for percutaneous catheter thoracocentesis in obese patients with uncorrectable coagulopathy.Methods: During the study period from January 2019 to October 2020, 20 patients, of which 14 (70%) men and 6 (30%) women ranging from 45 to 70 years (mean 53.4 10.6 years) were subjected to this new technique of pleural catheter insertion. Results: The majority of cases had chronic liver disease associated pleural effusion, followed by end stage kidney disease. Mean BMI of 28 kg/m2 was observed. Mean skin and subcutaneous thickness was 4.5±0.5cm. Technical success was 100% and clinical success was 95%. 10% developed pneumothorax. The catheter was dislodged in one case that required catheter reinsertion. The mean duration of drainage ~5.8 days. 20% patient experienced mild chest pain after the insertion of the catheter. One patient had blockage of catheter and two had infection. 10% developed pneumothorax after insertion of catheter. Conclusions: This Innovative technique for percutaneous catheter guided drainage of symptomatic pleural effusion in bedridden patients with uncorrectable coagulopathy provides safe, reliable and effective drainage of echo free effusion.