Use of purified streptokinase in empyema and hemothorax

doi:10.1016/0002-9610(91)90899-O

The American Journal of Surgery

Volume 161, Issue 5, May 1991, Pages 560-562

https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9610(91)90899-O Get rights and content

Abstract

Enzymatic debridement of the pleural cavity for retained hemothorax or empyema is a frequently overlooked option. Thirteen of fourteen patients (93%) with retained pleural collections underwent successful enzymatic debridement and tube drainage with purified streptokinase injections. The average increase in chest tube output following streptokinase injections was 158%. No significant adverse reactions occurred. One patient required thoracotomy when streptokinase therapy failed. Two others had successful resolution of their pleural collections but required thoracotomy for other indications. There were two deaths (14%), which were unrelated to the use of streptokinase or residual empyema. Intrapleural streptokinase is a safe, effective means of removing retained proteinaceous collections in the pleural space. It is a useful adjunct to chest tube drainage and may obviate the need for more invasive procedures.

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^☆: Supported in part by the Ryan Hill Research Foundation, Seattle, Washington.

^☆☆: Presented at the 77th Annual Meeting of the North Pacific Surgical Association, Seattle, Washington, November 9–10, 1990.

¹: From the Department of Surgery, Swedish and Virginia Mason Medical Centers, and the University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.

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Scientific paperUse of purified streptokinase in empyema and hemothorax☆,☆☆

Abstract

Am J Surg

J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg

Am J Surg

Ann Thorac Surg

Ann Thorac Surg

Am J Surg

Ann Thorac Surg

Management of nontuberculous empyema. A statement of the Subcommittee on Surgery, American Thoracic Society, Medical Section of the National Tuberculosis Association

Am Rev Resp Dis

Early thoracotomy for pyogenic empyema

Ann Thorac Surg

Scientific paper
Use of purified streptokinase in empyema and hemothorax☆,☆☆