Empyema is a disorder characterized by collection of pus in the pleural space that has spread from an infected lung. Pleural space lies between the lung and the inner surface of the chest wall.
Symptoms of Empyema
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Chest pain that worsens on deep breathing
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Shortness of breath
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Dry cough
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Fever and chills
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Weight loss
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Fatigue
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Excessive night sweating
Diagnosis of Empyema
The diagnosis starts with physical examination and auscultation with a stethoscope. Decreased breath sounds or an abnormal sound (friction rub) is the first finding that is followed by following tests:
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Chest x-ray
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CT scan of chest
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Pleural fluid analysis
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Thoracentesis
Laparoscopic Omentoplasty for Empyema
Laparoscopic repair of empyema is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes about 3-4 small incisions in the abdomen. One of the incisions is used to insert a port (nozzle) that fills the carbon dioxide gas into the abdomen to inflate it. Now laparoscope is inserted through another incision. A laparoscope is a telescope lookalike with a light and camera on the end. It allows the surgeon to clearly view inside of the abdomen on the monitor outside. After careful evaluation, surgeon performs laparoscopic mobilization of the greater omentum and its transposition via the diaphragm into the pleural cavity to fill in the empyema cavity with the consecutive pleuro-cutaneous fistuloplasty (thoracoplasty). After completing the repair, the carbon dioxide gas is released out, and incisions are closed with sutures or staples, or covered with glue-like bandage.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Omentoplasty for Empyema
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Faster recovery
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Only few hours or overnight hospitalization
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Earlier ambulation
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Sooner return to work
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Very less pain during and after the procedure
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Smaller incisions without any cut on abdominal muscles
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Negligible risks and complications
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Less chances of wound infection
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High success rate
