Pleural Effusion
Pleural effusion is a build-up of fluid between the lung and the chest wall. Causes include heart failure, infection, cancer, liver disease and other conditions.
Symptoms
Breathlessness, chest heaviness, cough or discomfort when breathing deeply. Small effusions may cause no symptoms.
How interventional radiology treats it
Ultrasound-guided thoracentesis uses a needle or small catheter to remove fluid. A sample may be sent for testing to determine the cause. Recurrent effusions may require a longer-term drainage catheter or another specialist procedure. Treatment of the underlying condition is essential to prevent or reduce recurrence.
Whether this treatment suits you depends on your scans and overall health. A consultation is the first step.
Your doctors
Talk to an interventional radiologist.
Bring any scans or reports you have. We’ll tell you whether this treatment is an option.