Background: Rigid thoracoscopy is the gold standard tool for diagnosing exudative pleural effusion but sometimes it is difficult to obtain sufficient biopsies using the conventional forceps. Objectives: This study evaluated the efficacy, safety and diagnostic value of a modified technique using cryoprobe to obtain pleural biopsies during thoracoscopy. Methods: This is a single center prospective study in patients who will undergo rigid thoracoscopy using conventional rigid forceps followed by a cryoprobe from the same site after injection of subpleural mixture of adrenaline and xylocaine. Biopsies will be reviewed by an independent pathologist; any complications will be recorded, and all patients will be followed up post procedure.
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Comparison between pleural biopsy specimens obtained by modified cryoprobe technique and conventional rigid forceps during medical thoracoscopy in diagnosis of pleural effusion regarding size of the obtained pleural biopsies.
Timeframe: Immediately after ending the procedure
Comparison between pleural biopsy specimens obtained by modified cryoprobe technique and conventional rigid forceps during medical thoracoscopy in diagnosis of pleural effusion regarding depth of the obtained pleural biopsies.
Timeframe: 1 week
Comparison between pleural biopsy specimens obtained by modified cryoprobe technique and conventional rigid forceps during medical thoracoscopy in diagnosis of pleural effusion regarding integrity of the obtained pleural biopsies.
Timeframe: 1 week