What is the current role of thoracentesis in severe fetal hydrothorax? Case report

Rodríguez O.T.; Biaggi M.A.P.; Fleming G.C.P.; Enríquez I.M.G.; Calvo L.K.A.; Álvarez J.Y.P.; Roque M.M.D.; Soto P.P. · Revista Peruana de Ginecologia y Obstetricia (2022) · DOI: 10.31403/rpgo.v68i2415

Resumen

Hydrothorax is a primary pleural effusion that occurs during prenatal life (called "primary chylothorax" after birth). In certain cases, this effusion is severe and produces pulmonary and cardiac compression, and perinatal mortality remains high. Newborns with hydrothorax often require drainage, total parenteral nutrition and specific medication for their recovery. However, prenatal interventions, mainly with thoraco-amniotic shunts, can improve these results. We report the case of a fetus with severe hydrothorax who underwent thoracentesis and review the literature on its role in current prenatal management.