pleurodesis
Pronunciation: PLOOR-oh-dee-sis
Medical procedure that eliminates the pleural space to prevent recurrent pneumothorax or pleural effusion.
Full Definition
Pleurodesis is a medical procedure designed to eliminate the pleural space by causing adhesion between the visceral and parietal pleural layers, preventing the accumulation of air or fluid. This procedure is typically performed in patients with recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax, malignant pleural effusion, or persistent air leaks. The procedure can be accomplished through various methods including chemical pleurodesis (using sclerosing agents like talc or doxycycline) or mechanical pleurodesis (through surgical abrasion or pleural stripping). In pediatric patients, pleurodesis is usually reserved for cases with multiple recurrences or high-risk conditions where conservative management has failed.
Usage
Usage note: Specify method (chemical vs. mechanical) and agent used when documenting.
In Context
- "Following the third spontaneous pneumothorax, the patient underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic pleurodesis." — Surgical consultation note
- "Chemical pleurodesis with talc was performed to prevent recurrent malignant pleural effusion." — Procedure report