Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in the treatment of complicated parapneumonic effusions or empyemas: outcome of 234 patients.

Study Objective: To review our experience in treatment of complicated parapneumonic effusion and pleural empyema by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

Design: Retrospective chart review.

Setting: Taiwanese medical centers.

Video-assisted thoracic surgery for spontaneous pneumothorax: outcome of 189 cases.

The crucial role of video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) in the treatment of spontaneous pneumothorax is well acknowledged today. Experiences of such patients undergoing VATS were reported to evaluate the feasibility of such surgical approach. From January 1, 1996 to January 1, 2002, 189 patients (18.