Pleural Clinic

The Pleural Clinic at Emirates Hospitals offers specialized care for patients with diseases or conditions affecting the pleura, the membrane surrounding the lungs. This clinic provides a full range of diagnostic, therapeutic, and follow-up services aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with pleural diseases, such as pleuritis, pleural effusion, and mesothelioma.

Conditions Treated at the Pleural Clinic

The Pleural Clinic focuses on a variety of conditions related to the pleura and lung tissue:

• Pleural Effusion: The accumulation of excess fluid in the pleural space, leading to difficulty breathing, chest pain, and cough.
• Pleuritis: Inflammation of the pleura, often caused by viral infections, autoimmune diseases, or injury, causing sharp chest pain and difficulty breathing.
• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive form of cancer affecting the pleura, often related to asbestos exposure.
• Pneumothorax: A collapsed lung due to air leakage between the pleura and lung.

Advanced Diagnostic Services

Emirates Hospitals use advanced diagnostic tools to provide an accurate diagnosis of pleural conditions, ensuring the right treatment is given.

• Chest X-ray: Initial imaging to identify abnormalities such as fluid buildup or lung collapse.
• CT Scan: Provides detailed images of the lungs and pleura, aiding in the identification of fluid collections, tumors, or scarring.
• Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging used to guide procedures such as pleural fluid drainage.
• Thoracoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure used to visually inspect the pleura and take biopsies for further analysis.
• Pleural Biopsy: In cases of suspected cancer or unexplained pleural thickening, a tissue sample may be taken for lab analysis.

Treatment Options at the Pleural Clinic

Treatment plans at the Pleural Clinic are personalized to the specific needs of each patient, with options ranging from conservative therapies to more advanced interventions.

• Drainage of Pleural Effusion: Fluid may be drained through a needle or chest tube to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, or chemotherapy for infections, inflammation, or cancer.
• Pleurodesis: A procedure where a substance is introduced into the pleura to prevent further fluid buildup in patients with recurrent pleural effusion.
• Surgical Intervention: Surgery may be recommended for conditions like mesothelioma or complicated pleural effusion to remove tumors or damaged tissue.

Multidisciplinary Approach to Care

At Emirates Hospitals, the Pleural Clinic adopts a multidisciplinary approach to provide comprehensive care for pleural diseases:

• Collaboration: Oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and thoracic surgeons work together to develop personalized treatment plans.
• Post-Treatment Support: Rehabilitation and support services, including respiratory therapy, are available to improve lung function and quality of life.

By integrating cutting-edge diagnostic tools, advanced treatment options, and holistic care, the Pleural Clinic at Emirates Hospitals offers world-class care for patients with pleural and lung diseases, enhancing recovery and long-term health.