Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery Versus Tube Thoracostomy with Fibrinolytics for Treatment of Empyema in Children: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies.

ABSTRACT: Background: The British Thoracic Society recommended tube thoracostomy plus intra-pleural fibrinolytics to treat empyema in children in 2005. However, numerous comparative studies have suggested Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) as a first line of treatment for pediatric empyema due to its superior outcomes, including shorter length of hospital stay (LOS). This meta-analysis aimed to compare the following: (1) the LOS for VATS versus fibrinolytics to treat empyema in children; (2) secondary post-operative outcomes (fever, O₂ support, time taken for chest tube removal, analgesia, complications, failure, and abnormal chest X-ray at follow-up). Methods: The study was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Sc

SUBMITTER: Miscia ME 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12468689 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature