Iterative Thoracentesis as First-Line Treatment of Complicated Parapneumonic Effusion

Rationale: Optimal management of complicated parapneumonic effusions (CPPE) remains controversial. Objectives: to assess safety and efficacy of iterative therapeutic thoracentesis (ITTC), the first-line treatment of CPPE in Rennes University Hospital. Methods: Patients with CPPE were identified through our computerized database. We retrospectively studied all cases of CPPE initially managed with ITTC in our institution between 2001 and 2010. ITTC failure was defined by the need for additional treatment (i.e. surgery or percutaneous drainage), or death. Results: Seventy-nine consecutive patients were included. The success rate was 81% (n = 64). Only 3 patients (4%) were referred to thoracic surgery. The one-year survival rate was 88%. On multivariate analysis, microorganisms observed in pleural fluid after Gram staining and first thoracentesis volume ≥450 mL were associated with ITTC failure with adjusted odds-ratios of 7.65 [95% CI, 1.44–40.67] and 6.97 [95% CI, 1.86–26.07], respectively. The main complications of ITTC were iatrogenic pneumothorax (n = 5, 6%) and vasovagal reactions (n = 3, 4%). None of the pneumothoraces required chest tube drainage, and no hemothorax or re-expansion pulmonary edema was observed. Conclusions: Although not indicated in international recommendations, ITTC is safe and effective as first-line treatment of CPPE, with limited invasiveness.