Pediatric Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) in Management of Empyema
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
Thoracic surgeons have developed a thoracoscopic procedure which is less intrusive method allows complete evacuation and washing of the debris from the pleural cavity. This approach may also have the benefit of less invasive maneuver, a shorter hospital stay and a decreased rate of postoperative complications. The aim of this study is to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) approach in comparison with thoracotomy in management of empyema in pediatric patients.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * pediatric patients 1 yrs. : ≤ 18 yrs. * Patients with empyema due to pneumonia. * Patients with empyema had lasted for fewer than 3 weeks. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients \< 1 yrs. old. * Patients with whom pleural empyema had lasted for more than 3 weeks. * Patients with empyema had been caused by trauma. * Patients whose parents refuse to be included in the study. * Patients with empyema due to ruptured lung abscess. * Patients with empyema due to chest wall abscess. * Patients with empyema due to rib osteomyelitis. * Patients with bronchopleural fistula. * Patients with post-surgical empyema.