Pleural Effusions

Each day, the lining of the lung produces fluid to help lubricate the movement of the lung inside the chest cavity. When the production of fluid becomes excessive and overcomes the absorptive capacity, this is known as a pleural effusion. This causes shortness of breath as the fluid occupies the space where the lung should be. 

Pleural effusions can be due to benign or malignant conditions.

In order to reduce the production of fluid, a pleuradesis is performed, to allow expansion of the lung to best of its capability in order to alleviate shortness of breath. This is generally performed via a keyhole approach and is successful in the majority of cases in appropriately selected patients.