Scholarlink

<p>Refractory empyema poses significant treatment challenges, but open window thoracostomy (OWT) remains an effective solution, facilitating infection control and promoting recovery. However, after the resolution of infection, patients often face complications due to the open pleural cavity and residual pleural space. The closure of open window thoracostomies is particularly difficult, especially in the presence of large residual spaces and bronchopleural fistulas (BPFs). This case series examines six patients who underwent OWT for empyema of various etiologies, employing a two-stage approach: intra-thoracic vacuum therapy followed by closure of the residual pleural space with a pedicled muscle flap. The outcomes demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of this technique in addressing complex OWT closure challenges and improving patient outcomes.</p>

错误：搜索内容不能为空，请输入英文关键词
错误：关键词超出字数限制，请精简
高级检索

An alternative method of closure of open window thoracostomy: a two-staged approach

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年12月10日

查看全文
  • Rohit Kumar Rathi,
  • Abhishek Mohan,
  • Shvet Mahajan,
  • Shyam Sundar Rengan,
  • Roman Dutta,
  • Sabyasachi Bal

摘要

Refractory empyema poses significant treatment challenges, but open window thoracostomy (OWT) remains an effective solution, facilitating infection control and promoting recovery. However, after the resolution of infection, patients often face complications due to the open pleural cavity and residual pleural space. The closure of open window thoracostomies is particularly difficult, especially in the presence of large residual spaces and bronchopleural fistulas (BPFs). This case series examines six patients who underwent OWT for empyema of various etiologies, employing a two-stage approach: intra-thoracic vacuum therapy followed by closure of the residual pleural space with a pedicled muscle flap. The outcomes demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of this technique in addressing complex OWT closure challenges and improving patient outcomes.