thoracic surgery at mass general
Thoracic surgery research at MGH Thoracic surgeons at Mass General Hospital Thoracic Surgery Patient Info from Mass General Hospital Fellowships in Thoracic Surgery at Mass General Hospital
Mass General US News and World Report Best Hospital

 


 

 

 

Pleural Effusion

 

Quick Links

 

Pleural effusion, or an accumulation of fluid between the lining of the lung and the chest cavity is a common condition caused by a variety of benign diseases and malignant tumors. A thoracic surgeon is often involved in draining fluid and establishing the diagnosis.

Malignant Pleural Effusion

A malignant pleural effusion is caused by cancer. The goal of treatment is usually to improve breathing. This is accomplished by draining fluid and preventing fluid from building up again. Different procedures are available depending on the individual situation. The procedure to prevent fluid from returning is called pleurodesis.

Back to Lung Conditions

 

lung cancer
airway disease surgery
esophageal cancer
minimally invasive surgery
thymic disease
hyperhidrosis
lung transplant
lung transplant

 

 
© 2007 Massachusetts General Hospital : The Division of Thoracic Surgery : 55 Fruit Street : Blake 1570 : Boston, MA 02114 : (617) 726-6826
Return to the Massachusetts General Hospital Homepage Thoracic Surgery at Mass General Hospital