Pleural manometry

Abstract

The measurement of pressure in the pleural space has been performed for more than 120 years. Though interesting from a physiological standpoint in and of itself, it is now often used clinically to minimize the pressure-related complications associated with thoracentesis including the development of symptoms, such as chest discomfort and reexpansion pulmonary edema, as well as to predict the success of pleurodesis in patients with malignant effusions. Unfortunately, the use of pleural manometry at the bedside remains an underutilized technique. This chapter will review the pressure physiology of the pleural space and discuss the clinical application of manometry.