Intervention in the pleura

Over the last two decades, radiology has assumed a pivotal role in the management of pleural disease mainly due to developments in ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT). The indications for the variety of techniques now available are discussed and protocols for performing thoracentesis, empyema drainage, pleurodosis and pleural biopsy are established. The spectrum of pleural diseases, which lend themselves to radiological intervention, are considered under the headings: pleural fluid, pneumothorax and pleural tumors.