VATS: Draining Pleural Effusion

A collection of fluid in the lungs is called pleural effusion. Pleural effusion can be a result of many conditions, such as pneumonia, congestive heart failure, and some cancers.

The excess fluid build up can make breathing difficult, so draining the fluid is often done.

Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) can accomplish this. With a series of small cuts between the ribs, a tiny video camera can be inserted, allowing the surgeon to see inside the lung on a monitor. A small drain can then be inserted to remove the fluid.

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