The usual
treatment for
empyema in
children varies from a simple
thoracocentesis to
thoracotomy and open decortication. We studied the
role of
thoracoscopy in the management of
empyema thoracis in 10 immunocompetent
children after failure of medical management. All
children recovered well with an early removal of intercostal tube and reduced postoperative
hospital stay and showed complete resolution of
empyema on follow up.
Thoracoscopy has come as a new ray of
hope for the
patients with
empyema, with the advantages of complete
evacuation, minimal pulmonary dysfunction, reduced
pain and
hospital stay.