VATS ( Video-Assisted Thoracoscopy) Compared to Reinsertion of a Thoracostomy Tube for Persistent Haemothorax

VATS( Video-Assisted Thoracoscopy ) Compared to Reinsertion of a Thoracostomy Tube for Persistent Haemothorax A Single Center Prospective Randomized Study

This is a prospective, randomized study comparing VATS( Video-Assisted Thoracoscopy ) to reinsertion of a Thoracostomy Tube in patients with retained haemothorax. The hypothesis is that early VATS as opposed to reinsertion of a thoracostomy tube , will lead to less complications and shorter hospital stay.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clinical and radiological diagnosis of retained haemothorax
• Thoracostomy tube blockage or failure to drain

Exclusion Criteria:

• more than one attempt at thoracostomy tube drainage
• unable to consent to trial
• coexisting pathology requiring other interventions