Pyogenic Postpneumonectomy Empyema

Abstract

The Clagett method of managing postpneumonectomy empyema was used on two patients and proved efficacious. After tube drainage (if a bronchopleural fistula is present), treatment is begun by creating a pleurostomy in a dependent site. The patient may then be cared for as an outpatient, and dressings may be changed at home. After a few months, when the pleura is clean, the pleurostomy is closed surgically and the space is filled with ¼% neomycin solution. If a fistula is present, this is closed at the same time. The treatment depends on the ability of the neomycin to sterilize any residual infection, after temporary drainage of the empyema. It makes unnecessary a major and mutilating thoracoplasty or even permanent tube drainage, which is usually difficult to manage on an outpatient basis.

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