Diseases of the pleura
The most common diseases of the pleura are pleural effusions (water on the pleura) caused by inflammation, infection or tumours. Ultrasound-guided punctures, drainage or thoracoscopy of the pleural cavity are used to diagnose and treat these effusions.
Thoracoscopy allows a direct view of changes to the lung surface and pleura. An existing pleural effusion can be drained and, if necessary, cell and tissue samples can be taken. If necessary, a stimulus can also be applied to adhere the pleural cavity (e.g. using talcum powder). This prevents the formation of a new effusion. Thoracoscopy is performed in our operating theatre and patients are monitored and cared for by the anaesthesia team during the procedure. During the examination, short-acting sleeping pills and, if necessary, painkillers are administered.
Pleurisy is usually caused by pneumonia. This exceeds the surface of the lungs and spreads to the pleura. Typical symptoms are pain when breathing in and out and, more rarely, shortness of breath. If you have these symptoms, you should consult a doctor.
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