Is there a role for the high-risk multidisciplinary team meeting in thoracic surgery?

Objectives: There is little information on the impact of a high-risk multidisciplinary team (HRMDT) for thoracic surgery. In our unit, patients considered high risk for thoracic surgery have been discussed at this meeting since its inception in June 2013. The aim of this study was to audit our selection of patients discussed at the HRMDT and its effect on patient outcomes.

Should pregnant patients with a recurrent or persistent pneumothorax undergo surgery?

A 29-year old woman at 26 weeks gestation (gravida 3 and para 0) presented with an acute left-sided pneumothorax. She had a 10 pack-year smoking history and no other relevant medical history. Over the next 3 weeks, she had three recurrences of her left-sided pneumothorax, each of which was managed by intercostal drain insertion.