What is Pleural Effusion Drainage in Mumbai?

Step-by-Step Guide to Pleural Effusion Drainage in Mumbai

Mumbai is renowned for its high-quality healthcare, and there are instances when prompt medical attention can save a life. One such medical activity is pleural effusion drainage. Nowadays, tuberculosis (TB) has been one of the leading causes of pleural effusion in India, which accounts for nearly 64.67% of diagnosed pleural effusions.

Pleural effusion drainage treatment is a common practice in Mumbai. A prompt diagnosis and drainage of pleural effusion can significantly improve breathing, reduce stress, and enhance quality of life. Keep reading for a detailed insight into pleural effusion drainage in Mumbai.

What Happens in the Pleural Effusion Drainage in Mumbai?

In Mumbai, pleural effusion drainage is available in prominent hospitals and is performed under the supervision of either a physician specialising in pulmonary medicine or an interventional radiologist. This is what the procedure will appear like at the hospital:

• Step 1:Preparation  : You will be monitored while you are sitting upright in a comfortable position, and the healthcare specialist will assess your vital signs. If necessary, they may administer some oxygen.
• Step 2:Anaesthesia : The doctor will sterilise an area of the back and numb it with local anaesthetic (LA).
• Step 3:Inserting the Needle : The doctor will use an ultrasound to identify the right area of pleural effusion and then insert a needle (or catheter) between a set of ribs to access the pleural space.
• Step 4: Fluid Drainage : The doctor will drain fluid from the patient's pleural space using suction from a syringe or a drainage tube connected to a vacuum bottle. This typically takes about 10-15 minutes to accomplish and drains around a litre of fluid.
• Step 5: Post-Procedure Care : After the doctor has finished draining the pleural effusion, they will remove the needle or catheter and apply a sterile bandage. Most patients feel a slight discomfort after the process, but significant pain is rarely the case.

What Complications are Related to Pleural Effusion Drainage?

Although overall safe, pleural drainage procedures do have some minor complications, such as:

• Pain or discomfort
• Bleeding
• Air leakage into the pleural space (pneumothorax)
• Infection
• Temporary worsening of breathlessness

How Much Does Pleural Effusion Drainage Cost in Mumbai?

The cost of pleural effusion drainage in Mumbai depends on several factors, including the type of hospital, the qualification of the medical team, diagnostic tests and imaging (such as ultrasound and X-ray), the length of hospital stay, and whether catheter-based or surgical intervention is required.

Overall, the cost of pleural effusion drainage (thoracentesis) ranges between ₹5,000 and ₹10,000 in the majority of hospitals in Mumbai. More advanced treatments, such as the insertion of a chest tube or the placement of an IPC (intrapleural catheter), can be more expensive.

Pleural effusion drainage is a simple and effective procedure that helps restore normal breathing and prevent complications. In Mumbai, where skilled specialists and well-equipped facilities are available, patients can look forward to quality treatment and a quick recovery.