Thoracic surgeons have developed a thoracoscopic procedure which is less intrusive method allows complete evacuation and washing of the debris from the pleural cavity. This approach may also have the benefit of less invasive maneuver, a shorter hospital stay and a decreased rate of postoperative complications.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) approach in comparison with thoracotomy in management of empyema in pediatric patients.

comparison between VATS decortication and open thoracotomy in cases of pediatric empyema

Inclusion Criteria:

• pediatric patients 1 yrs. : ≤ 18 yrs.
• Patients with empyema due to pneumonia.
• Patients with empyema had lasted for fewer than 3 weeks.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients < 1 yrs. old.
• Patients with whom pleural empyema had lasted for more than 3 weeks.
• Patients with empyema had been caused by trauma.
• Patients whose parents refuse to be included in the study.
• Patients with empyema due to ruptured lung abscess.
• Patients with empyema due to chest wall abscess.
• Patients with empyema due to rib osteomyelitis.
• Patients with bronchopleural fistula.
• Patients with post-surgical empyema.