Indwelling pleural catheter

Indwelling Pleural Catheters (IPCs) are a developed and less invasive way to manage repeated malignant pleural effusions among patients with progressive cancer. The production of malignant pleural effusion causes fluid accumulation surrounding the lungs leading to symptoms such as breathing difficulties (dyspnea) and thoracic pain. The most active symptom relief deserves such a long-term option with IPCs, improving quality of life.

There is an uncomplicated process to put it in an outpatient setting, using local anaesthesia. A flexible drain tube may be placed into the pleural space where it lets fluid out through regular home drainage. In this way, the patient or somebody else can do it reducing frequent visits to hospitals for invasive procedures.

Modern IPC techniques are safer and more comfortable. For example, designs tend to promote less infectious agents entering into them while reducing discomfort from hernias; numerous patients also exhibit spontaneous pleurodesis over time making further interventions unnecessary.

Before opting for an indwelling pleural catheter, it is vital to seek advice from your health care physician on its advantages, disadvantages and management. This can greatly help patients suffering from repeated pleural effusions in symptom control and improving their comfort levels