Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in the treatment of empyema: a case series

Abstract

Background: Empyema is a condition that can be treated depending on the etiology of the empyema and the phase of empyema development. Open thoracotomy surgery is a conventional technique commonly used in empyema that has greater risk and more extended postoperative hospital stay. This case series aims to evaluate Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) to shorten postoperative hospital stay and lower the risk during the surgery.Case Presentation: We describe a case series of empyema in five patients, each with a different presentation, clinical course, and outcome. All of our patients were performed VATS procedures under General Anesthesia and evaluated for postoperative hospital stays and complications that occur after the surgery. Most of the patients experienced tolerable pain on the site of surgery and only need 3 – 4 days post-operation hospital stays after VATS before being discharged. Only one patient with a poor prognosis after VATS in this case series caused the patient to be admitted to the Intensive Care Unit and using a mechanical ventilator.Conclusion: In this case series, VATS has a promising result for the patient and can become a choice of treatment for empyema.