Comparison of small lumen versus large lumen inter costal catheter drainage in empyema thoracis on degree of comfort and re-expansion of lungs: An open label, quasi randomized study

BackgroundUse of intercostal drainage tube (ICDT) is an accepted treatment empyema thoracis (ET).We compared the effectiveness small versus large lumen ICDT on degree pain 4th day insertion as well pus in cases ET.MethodsIt was open labelled quasi randomized study, conducted a tertiary care Hospital Northern India. Children 2 month to 12 year old were by days week into two groups. In group A, 12/14F and B, >14F used (1,2,12).Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) scoring insertion. Ultrasound (USG) thorax done day1,between 5-6 10-12 assess amount fluid.ResultsFrom September 2018 August 2019,130 (66 A 64 B) enrolled. FLACC Pain score higher B (7.50±1.272) (2.86 ± 0.839) (p = 0.034).there no significant difference fluid drained between day1and 5 (159.3 ml ±125.9 179.5 ±167.6 ml, p=0.2) 1 & 10 (205.6 130.2 244.5 ±174.7 p= 0.7).ConclusionSmall (12F-14F) cause substantially less than (>14F) without duration hospital stay children with ET.