What is Pleurodesis?

Pleurodesis (pleur-o-dee-sis) is a surgical procedure used to stop fluid or air from building up between the tissue covering the lung and the lining of the chest wall (also called the pleural space). The build up of air or fluid makes it hard for the lung to fully expand, which is why many women with lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) experience shortness of breath as the fluid or air accumulates in and around their lung.

The procedure involves the injection of a chemical that seals the space to prevent leakage. There are a variety of agents which can be used, including talc and bleomycin. They work by causing irritation between the two layers covering the lung, eliminating the space between the pleura and preventing the reaccumulation of fluid.

The procedure can be done at the bedside with local anesthesia. It may also be done in the operating room by video-assisted thoracoscopy surgery, in which case you would be under general anesthesia.

When a woman with LAM is experiencing frequent lung collapses, pleurodesis is often the procedure doctors recommend to improve lung function.

Questions for Your Health Care Provider

At what stage is pleurodesis needed to improve my condition?
How often have you performed this procedure?
Would you recommend local or general anesthesia?
How long will it take me to recover?
Are there activities I should avoid?
What is the likelihood of leakage after pleurodesis?

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