Major complications are pneumothorax (3–30%), hemopneumothorax, hemorrhage, hypotension (low blood pressure due to a vasovagal response) and reexpansion pulmonary edema. Minor complications include a dry tap (no fluid return), subcutaneous hematoma or seroma, anxiety, dyspnea and cough (after removing large volume of fluid). The use of ultrasound for needle guidance can minimize the complication rate. Follow-up imaging While chest X-ray has traditionally been performed to assess for pneumothorax following the procedure, it may no longer be necessary to do so in asymptomatic, non-ventilated persons given the widespread use of ultrasound to guide this procedure.
Thoracentesis
Thoracotomy
Thoracostomy
Pleurodesis
Thoracoscopy
Paracentesis
Pneumonectomy
Pulmonary tractotomy