A Comparative Study of Two Small-Bore Pleural Drainage Systems

The aim of our study was to compare the efficacy of a closed drainage system (a bedside procedure) to that of an ultra­sound-guided drainage system. 29 patients with pleural effu­sion were randomly assigned to undergo either ultrasound- guided small-bore pleural catheter placement (Pigtail® group, n=15) or catheter placement without ultrasound-guidance (Pleuracan® group, n=14). Data on indications for tube place­ment, drainage volume, mean duration of catheter stay, com­plications, and effectiveness of drainage were collected. Findings for the two groups were compared. The Pleuracan® group included 9 males and 5 females (mean age: 59.2±23.4 years), the Pigtail® group included 10 males and 5 females (mean age: 49.4±22.5 years). There were no statistically sig­nificant differences between the groups regarding sex distrib­ution, age or catheter calibers used. The most common diag­nosis was complicated parapneumonic effusion (34%). The other indications for tube placement were malignancy (21%), hemorrhagic effusion (21%), transudate (21%) and hemotho­rax (3%). The patients with Pleuracan® catheters showed The aim of our study was to compare the efficacy of a closed drainage system (a bedside procedure) to that of an ultra­sound-guided drainage system. 29 patients with pleural effu­sion were randomly assigned to undergo either ultrasound- guided small-bore pleural catheter placement (Pigtail® group, n=15) or catheter placement without ultrasound-guidance (Pleuracan® group, n=14). Data on indications for tube place­ment, drainage volume, mean duration of catheter stay, com­plications, and effectiveness of drainage were collected. Findings for the two groups were compared. The Pleuracan® group included 9 males and 5 females (mean age: 59.2±23.4 years), the Pigtail® group included 10 males and 5 females (mean age: 49.4±22.5 years). There were no statistically sig­nificant differences between the groups regarding sex distrib­ution, age or catheter calibers used. The most common diag­nosis was complicated parapneumonic effusion (34%). The other indications for tube placement were malignancy (21%), hemorrhagic effusion (21%), transudate (21%) and hemotho­rax (3%). The patients with Pleuracan® catheters showed small-diameter tubes are as safe as ultrasound-guided sys­tems.