Chest tube versus pigtail catheter in the management of empyema

Abstract

Background Chest tubes are cornerstone for draining fluid in empyema. Insertion of an intercostal tube is considered an invasive intervention with significant morbidity. In a trial to avoid potential complications, the use of pigtail catheter instead of conventional chest tube in pleural drainage has been tried. The aim of current study was to observe the benefit of pigtail drainage over chest tube for draining empyema. Methods It was an observational prospective study. A detailed history and clinical evaluation were done for all patients. Patients were treated by either intercostal tube or pigtail catheter insertion depending on judgment of treating physician. Sonography guided insertion was done when needed. Outcomes of interest were duration of drainage, duration of analgesics use and time of hospital stay. Results Sixty patients were included in present study. Thirty patients were subjected to conventional intercostal tube, Another 30 patients were subjected to pigtail catheters. There were no significant differences regarding outcome, duration of drains, duration of antibiotic use and time of hospital stay in two groups. Duration of analgesics use was significantly lower in pigtail group. Conclusions The pigtail catheter gives dependable treatment for empyema and is a safe and less traumatic option than chest tube. There was no significant difference regarding outcome, duration of drains and time of hospital stay in two groups.