Intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy (IPFT) in loculated pleural effusions--analysis of predictors for failure of therapy and bleeding: a cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To assess risk factors associated with failure and bleeding in intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy (IPFT) for pleural effusions.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Setting

Two tertiary-care centres in North America.

Participants

We identified 237 cases that received IPFT for the treatment of pleural effusions. Data for 227 patients were compiled including demographics, investigations, radiological findings pretherapy and post-therapy and outcomes.

Intervention

Fibrinolytic therapy in the form of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) or streptokinase.

Primary and secondary outcomes

Success of therapy is defined as the presence of both clinical and radiological improvement leading to resolution. Failure was defined as persistence (ie, ineffect

SUBMITTER: Abu-Daff S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3586180 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature