understanding-pleural-effusion | Singapore General Hospital

Pleural effusion is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, the area between the lungs and the chest wall. This buildup of fluid can result from various underlying medical conditions, including congestive heart failure, pneumonia, cancer, and liver or kidney disease. The presence of pleural effusion can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and persistent coughing, which can significantly impact an individual's quality of life.

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Managing Symptomatic Malignant Pleural Effusions

Malignant pleural effusion occurs when cancer cells spread to the pleural space, resulting in the accumulation of fluid. Management of symptomatic malignant pleural effusions often involves draining the excess fluid from the pleural space to relieve symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. This can be achieved through several ways.

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Caring for Chest Drain and SINAPI Device

Proper care for a chest drain involves ensuring that the device remains securely in place and that the drainage system is functioning effectively. For patients who go home with an ambulatory drainage device, such as the SINAPI drainage device, it is important for us to teach patients and their caregivers how to monitor the drainage, maintain hygiene around the insertion site, and recognise signs of complications.

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