What is a typical complication associated with pleurodesis procedures?

Prepare for the ARRT Vascular Interventional Exam with interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question is accompanied by hints and explanations. Ensure your readiness for success!

Pleurodesis is a medical procedure used to adhere the visceral and parietal pleurae, usually to prevent the recurrence of pleural effusions or pneumothorax. While the procedure can be effective, it is not without risks, and several complications can arise.

One common complication associated with pleurodesis is pneumothorax, which refers to the accumulation of air in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. This can occur during the procedure if the lung is inadvertently punctured or if injury happens to the pleural lining.

Infection is another potential complication, as any invasive procedure carries a risk of introducing pathogens, particularly when instrumentation is involved. In the case of pleurodesis, infection can lead to more serious issues, including empyema, which is a collection of pus in the pleural cavity.

Hemothorax, the accumulation of blood in the pleural space, can also occur during the procedure. This may happen due to trauma to blood vessels surrounding the pleura during the insertion of a chest tube or the chemical agents used during chemical pleurodesis.

Given these potential complications, it becomes clear that all the listed issues can be associated with pleurodesis. Thus, the comprehensive

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