pleural symphysis
Complete adhesion of the visceral and parietal pleural surfaces, eliminating the pleural space.
Full Definition
Pleural symphysis refers to the complete obliteration of the pleural space due to dense fibrous adhesions between the visceral pleura (covering the lung) and the parietal pleura (lining the chest wall). This condition may result from chronic inflammatory processes such as empyema, recurrent pneumonia, or previous thoracic surgery. In cardiothoracic surgery, pleural symphysis can complicate re-operative procedures by making lung mobilization extremely difficult and increasing the risk of lung injury. The condition may be intentionally created through pleurodesis to prevent recurrent pneumothorax or pleural effusions.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from simple pleural adhesions, which are localized rather than complete obliteration.
In Context
- "Dense pleural symphysis from previous empyema made lung mobilization extremely challenging." — operative report
- "CT imaging revealed complete pleural symphysis with no identifiable pleural space." — radiology report