Pleurx is a soft, flexible tube (catheter) that is placed in the pleural cavity where the fluid has been collecting.  Part of the Pleurx catheter is outside the body where a safety valve at the end of the catheter prevents fluid from coming out, unless purposefully accessed.  For the majority of the time the Pleurx catheter can be coiled up and covered using gauze pads and a water-proof dressing.  This is very discreet and cannot be seen under a shirt or blouse.

When the patient needs to drain fluid, a 500ml vacuum bottle can be attached to the catheter.  Because the bottle contains a vacuum, fluid can be removed in a relatively short space of time (typically 3-5 minutes*).  The drainage procedure can be performed at home by the patient, carer or visiting health professional. 

The Pleurx drainage kit contains a vacuum bottle and all the relevant items needed to drain safely at home, using a clean technique.  The Pleurx drainage kit can be sent directly to the patients’ home in quantities of 10 units per box.

The Pleurx catheter is designed to remain in place permanently or can be removed at hospital, by a Doctor, if fluid is no longer re-accumulating.   

Possible advantages of using Pleurx to manage recurrent malignant pleural effusion:

• Avoids the need for repeat needle drainage procedures (thoracentesis).
• Less visits to hospital and reduced hospital length of stay.
• Home management of your condition.
• Effective control of symptoms e.g. breathlessness.
• Can be implanted under local anaesthetic.
• Regular vacuum drainage may lead to pleurodesis (cessation of fluid build up)
• Pleurx is usually well tolerated and has few complications.

Draining fluid from the Pleurx catheter

Please refer to the Pleurx Drainage Kit instructions for use on how to drain fluid safely at home. 

How to deal with the most likely complications:

Pleurx is usually very well tolerated with a low complication rate.  The two most common complications include infection and being unable to drain fluid from the catheter into the drainage bottle.  Although this is unlikely it is important you know what to look out for and what to do should these complications arise. Please refer to the ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ for advice.  If in any doubt, always contact your Doctor.

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