What is Pleural Effusion?

Pleural effusion is the buildup of pleural fluid in the pleural cavity. Usually, there will be 5-10 ml of fluid in the cavity but when the level increases, it causes pleural effusion.

Causes of pleural effusion

• Infections like tuberculosis, pneumonia, etc.
• Heart disease

Treatment for pleural effusion

• If the fluid presses on the lungs, the fluid is drained using intercostal drainage tube insertion.
• If the fluid still is present in several places even after the treatment then thoracoscopy is recommended.

Watch Dr. R. Punitha Kumar of Kauvery Hospital, one of the best Cardiothoracic Surgeons in Trichy explain Pleural Effusion – a condition that affects the lungs.