Pigtail catheter as an alternative option for malignant pleural effusion other than pleurodesis: a case series

Abstract

Patients with malignant pleural effusions should have pleural drainage as the preferred course of treatment. There are still issues in treating people who have malignant pleural effusions. There are several approaches for treating malignant pleural effusion. The following management methods are available: thoracentesis, implantation of a chest tube or indwelling pleural catheter, pleurodesis, and observation. Pigtail catheter use has emerged as a practical option that is less invasive, less uncomfortable and has fewer procedure-related problems other than pleurodesis. The purpose of this case series was to examine the effectiveness of pigtail catheter use in patients with malignant pleural effusion.