Complications associated with combined thoracentesis and pleural biopsy

ABSTRACT

In order to determine the spectrum and frequency of complications associated with thoracentesis alongwith pleural biopsy, we analysed 80 procedures of pleural aspiration and biopsy during a 9-month period from January 1996 to September 1996 in the department of Thoracic Medicine, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre Karachi. A special proforma was designed that included all relevant details. All junior doctors working in the department were asked to attend a lecture demonstrating the technique of performing thoracentesis and pleural biopsy. Every procedure was observed by a senior doctor who was responsible for recording and filling the proforma during and after the procedure. A total of 44 [55%] procedures had complications, 11 [13.5%] procedures had major complications while 39 [48%] had minor complications. Six of those with major complications also had minor complications. We conclude that thoracentesis with pleural biopsy carries a significant morbidity therefore if it is performed by the junior doctor it should be done after proper training and preferably under the supervision of a senior doctor