Surgery vs drainage for infected fluid around the lung
Part of Infections, Lungs & breathing clinical trials.
This trial compares two ways to treat pleural empyema, which is infected fluid and pus around the lung. It looks at whether a minimally invasive surgery (VATS) works better than drainage in helping people recover.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You’re 18 years or older
- You were admitted to the hospital within the last 48 hours and can consent to the study
- Your lung infection is “community acquired” and tests show infected pleural fluid, such as pus, positive cultures, or abnormal fluid tests
- You have not had prior chest surgery on the same side of the chest within the past year
- You have not had drainage for this same problem during this admission (except a diagnostic needle test)
- You’re not pregnant or breastfeeding, and you’re expected to live at least 3 months
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
Similar studies
Other trials that look related to this one.
This trial compares different lengths of antibiotic treatment for empyema, an infected fluid collection around the lung. It aims to find if a shorter course works just as well, which could mean fewer side effects and less inconvenience.
This trial tests a better way to drain fluid from around the lung while you are in the emergency department. It can help you breathe easier and find out what is causing the fluid buildup.
This trial tests whether draining fluid that builds up around the lungs helps patients with breathing problems in the intensive care unit. You may be eligible if you are in the ICU, have at least 2 cm of fluid on an ultrasound or CT scan, and need extra oxygen or a breathing machine.
This study compares two types of minimally invasive chest surgery to treat infected fluid around the lungs that hasn't cleared with antibiotics and drainage. It aims to see which surgery works better and help doctors predict which one patients need.
This trial compares two ways to drain fluid that has built up around the lungs (pleural effusion) when it is not caused by injury. One method uses a thin, flexible tube (pigtail catheter), and the other uses a larger chest tube. The goal is to see which method works better and is more comfortable for patients.
This trial compares using a special camera to look inside your chest (medical thoracoscopy) with standard care to treat infections in the fluid around the lungs. It aims to see if this procedure helps clear the infection better, possibly reducing the need for more invasive surgery or a longer hospital stay.
Hear when a new Pleural Empyema trial opens
We’ll email you when one opens — at most once a week, no account needed, unsubscribe anytime.