Intrapleural instillation of autologous blood in the treatment of prolonged air leak after lobectomy: a prospective randomized controlled trial.

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the value of instilling autologous blood into the pleural cavity to seal prolonged air leaks after lobectomy.

Methods: Of 319 lobectomies performed over an 18-month period, 22 patients (6.9%) experienced prolonged air leak (more than 5 days after surgery).

Efficacy of thoracoscopic lung biopsy in interstitial lung diseases: comparison with open lung biopsy.

Objective: To determine the efficacy of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) compared to open lung biopsy.

Design: Descriptive, observational case series.

Place And Duration Of Study: The Cardio-thoracic Centre, Liverpool, UK, from January 1995 to December 1999.

Gastroesophageal reflux and tracheal aspiration in the thoracotomy position: should ranitidine premedication be routine?

Unlabelled: Aspiration of gastric contents may contribute to pulmonary complications after thoracotomy. The incidence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and tracheal acid aspiration in patients undergoing thoracotomy in the lateral position is unknown. Ranitidine premedication reduces gastric volume, increases gastric pH, and may reduce GER.

Does lung biopsy help patients with interstitial lung disease?

Objectives: The decision to perform lung biopsy in the evaluation of interstitial lung disease (ILD) is based on the probability that this examination will yield a specific diagnosis, leading to a change in treatment. The purpose of this study was to identify factors that influence the diagnostic yield of lung biopsy for ILD.

Methods: One hundred patients underwent lung biopsy for ILD over a 5-year period.