Role of thoracoscopic pleural lavage and brush in undiagnosed exudative pleural effusion

Conclusion Combined thoracoscopic pleural specimens (forceps biopsy, brush and lavage) increase the diagnostic yield of medical thoracoscopy for patients with undiagnosed exudative pleural effusion than separate them. Thoracoscopic pleural brushing is a safe diagnostic technique as it can brush certain dangerous areas of the pleura. Pleural lavage is more diagnostic than the initial thoracentesis.
Source: Egyptian Journal of Chest Diseases and Tuberculosis - Category: Respiratory Medicine Source Type: research