The effect on refractory hydrothorax patients undergoing thoracocentesis and intrapleural catheter placement with different frequency

Objective To investigate the safety and efficacy of different frequency of thoracocentesis and intrapleural catheter placement (ICP) for treatment of patients with decompensated hepatitis B cirrhosis with refractory hepatic hydrothorax (RHH) . Methods A total of 168 RHH patients in Bethune International Peace Hospital were enrolled in the study from January 1st, 2010 to May 30th, 2015 and were randomly divided into the following four groups: T1 group (n=42) treated with thoracocentesis twice a week, T2 group (n=42) treated with thoracocentesis three times a week, ICP1 group (n=42) drained pleural effusion twice a week, and ICP2 group drained pleural effusion on alternate days. The results of clinical laboratory examination and tests were documented, while the fadeaway of pleural effusion and complications were observed. Results The levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) , albumin, serum potassium, plasma sodium and Child-Pugh scores in four groups were all significantly different (F=8.239, 6.194, 7.832, 5.478 and 9.486, P 0.05) . Conclusions RHH patients treated with thoracocentesis have significantly lower proportions of complication, effusion and puncture point suture than those of ICP. Thoracocentesis twice a week is safe and effective in treating RHH, whereas the benefits of ICP for RHH need to be further evaluated. Key words: Hydrothorax; Thoracocentesis; Intrapleural catheter placement; Treatment effects