Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Thoracoscopy is a technique used to visualize the pleural space and undertake diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in the presence of pleural disease. Thoracoscopy performed by physicians is usually undertaken using local anesthetic and sedation. It is commonly used to perform biopsies, mostly for the diagnosis of malignant pleural disease but can also be used for therapeutic procedures such as talc poudrage. The technique is performed by physicians in a number of centers, reducing the need for thoracic surgery, but there are some limitations to the technique where surgical intervention will still be required.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/B978-0-12-801238-3.11506-5

Type

Chapter

Book title

Encyclopedia of Respiratory Medicine, Second Edition

Publication Date

01/01/2021

Volume

4

Pages

578 - 589