Purpose of Technology: The purpose of indwelling pleural catheters (IPCs) is to allow for the intermittent drainage of accumulated fluid from the lungs that can occur as a complication of advanced malignancy, causing dyspnea, cough, and/or chest pain that lead to a decreased quality of life (QOL) and reduced functional ability.
Controversy: The main controversy surrounding the use of IPCs are their effectiveness compared with pleurodesis. Pleurodesis offers a more rapid resolution of the malignant pleural effusion (MPE), but is a more invasive procedure that requires a longer hospital stay and has a higher chance of failure and need for repeat procedures. An IPC can be implanted on an outpatient basis and is less invasive.
Relevant Questions:
Do IPCs provide adequate symptom palliation and improve outcomes in patients with MPEs and how do they compare with other treatments?
Are IPCs safe, and what are any related complications?
Have definitive patient selection criteria been established for IPCs for the management of MPEs?
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