Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for the treatment of hepatic hydrothorax:report of twelve cases

摘要

Background:Hepatic hydrothorax is defined as a significant pleural effusion in patients with liver cirrhosis and without underlying cardiopulmonary diseases. Treatment of hepatic hydrothorax remains a challenge at present. Methods:Herein we share our experiences in the treatment of 12 patients with hepatic hydrothorax by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery(VATS) . Repair of the diaphragmatic defects,or pleurodesis by focal pleurectomy,talc spray,mechanical abrasion,electro-cauterization or injection was administered intraoperatively,and tetracycline intrapleural injection was used postoperatively for patients with prolonged(>7 d) high-output(>300 ml/d) pleural effusion. Results:Out of the 12 patients,8(67%) had uneventful postoperative course and did not require tube for drainage more than 3 months after discharge. In 4(33%) patients the pleural effusion still recurred after discharge due to end-stage cirrhosis with massive ascites. Conclusion:We conclude that the repair of the diaphragmatic defect and pleurodesis through VATS could be an alternative of transjugular intrahepatic portal systemic shunt (TIPS) or a bridge to liver transplantation for patients with refractory hepatic hydrothorax. Pleurodesis with electrocauterization can be an alternative therapy if talc is unavailable.