Pleural Procedures
Pleural procedures are medical interventions performed to diagnose or treat conditions affecting the pleura, the thin membrane surrounding the lungs. Common procedures include thoracentesis, where a needle is inserted into the pleural space to remove excess fluid, and pleural biopsy, which involves taking a tissue sample for analysis. These procedures help identify infections, tumors, or other lung-related issues.
Another common pleural procedure is chest tube insertion, used to drain air or fluid from the pleural space, relieving pressure on the lungs. These interventions are typically performed by pulmonologists or thoracic surgeons and can be done in a hospital or outpatient setting, depending on the patient's condition.