Empyema
Treatment:
The goal of treatment is to cure the infection and remove the collection of pus from the lung. Antibiotics are prescribed to control the infection. A procedure called thoracentesis, the draining of the infected fluid through the chest wall by a needle, may be performed.
Surgery may be indicated for removal of the fluid if it is too thick to remove by thoracentesis. A chest tube may remain in place after the surgery for continued drainage of pus.
Expectations (prognosis):
Usually empyema does not result in permanent pulmonary damage.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if symptoms of empyema develop.
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