SINGLE THORACENTESIS IN UNILATERAL FETAL HYDROTHORAX: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

A case with a pleural effusion and hydrops fetalis has been presented. Good outcome had been achieved by a single thoracentesis and a healthy baby was delivered at the 39th week of pregnancy. In a fetus with a pleural effusion and hydrops fetalis, normal like echogenic view of the affected side lung and lung expansion during aspiration without any signs of fetal distress are good prognostic signs. We believe that in such conditions performing a single thoracentesis could be the first choice of treatment, which is a less complicated and traumatic method than thoraco-amniotic shunting.
Key Words: Single thoracentesis, Fetal hydrothorax

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