Clinical evaluation of a percutaneous pneumothorax catheter

This study prospectively evaluates the efficacy and complications of the percutaneous pneumothorax catheter. Twenty-five patients were treated with the percutaneous catheter for 19 episodes of spontaneous or iatrogenic pneumothorax, six malignant effusions, and one infected bulla. The catheter was effective in all but a single episode of spontaneous or iatrogenic pneumothorax and was especially useful in three patients with tension pneumothorax. Further experience is required to define fully its feasibility in the treatment of malignant effusions or infected bullae. The ease of insertion, good response, and low incidence of complications suggest that this catheter may be a useful alternative to tube thoracostomy in selected situations.