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Clagett thoracotomy

Case contributed by Frank Gaillard
Diagnosis certain

Patient Data

Age: Elderly
x-ray

A defect in the lateral aspect of the lower chest appears to communicate with the pleural cavity without, however, a convincing pneumothorax. Tracheostomy noted. 

ct

CT confirms a cavity filled with air and gauze packing. No pneumothorax or pleural collection is present. 

Case Discussion

This patient had an empyema treated with a Clagett thoracotomy, which is fortunately no longer common. 

 

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