Assessment of Pleural Pressure in the Evaluation of Pleural Effusions.

The article presents an assessment of pleural pressure in the evaluation of pleural effusions. Pleural manometry provides data to enhance understanding of the underlying pleural pathophysiology when an effusion is present and aids the physician in both diagnostic and therapeutic decisions. The measurement of pleural pressure helps differentiate lung entrapment and trapped lung, allows for the safe removal of large effusions, and is a useful tool to select appropriate patients for pleurodesis.