Thoracoscopy / Pleuroscopy Treatment in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai
What is thoracoscopy / pleuroscopy?
Minimally invasive procedure to inspect and biopsy the pleural cavity (lining of lungs) through a small incision (chest wall), often using video-assisted thoracoscope.
Indications
- Unexplained pleural effusion (fluid in the pleural space)
- Suspected pleural malignancy (mesothelioma, metastatic disease)
- Pleural thickening or nodules
- Pleural infections (empyema, tuberculosis)
Procedure & technique
- Local anesthesia and sedation (or general anesthesia)
- Small port in chest wall, scope enters pleural space
- Visual inspection of pleura
- Targeted biopsy of abnormal areas
- Drainage of fluid if present
Preparation & aftercare
- Pre-procedure evaluation (coagulation, imaging)
- Fasting as per protocol
- In-hospital stay (often short)
- Post-procedure chest radiograph to exclude pneumothorax
- Mild pain, shoulder discomfort possible
Risks / complications
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lung injury or collapse
- Pain
Conclusion
Thoracoscopy provides a safe and accurate way to diagnose pleural diseases with minimal surgical intervention.