Outcome of Vats in Management of Empyema Thoracis

Background: Empyema thoracis can produce significant morbidity in any age group if inadequately treated. Correct evaluation of the stage of the disease, the clinical condition and proper assessment of the response to conservative treatment is crucial in deciding the mode of further surgical intervention. � Aim: The principle aim of our study was to evaluate the outcome of VATS in different stages for empyema thoracis in patients referred to our department after failure of conservative treatment. � Material / method: The study was conducted in our SMIMER HOSPITAL, SURAT from Jan 2015 to Dec 2018 for 24 patients posted for VATS.10 out of 24 patients were converted to open thoracotomy. All these patients were followed post operatively at 24 hrs, 4 weeks and 6 weeks and were evaluated on basis of symptomatic relief and radiological resolutions. � Results: The outcomes of VATS were favourable in young age, females, patients without comorbidities, empyema with no underlying active lung pathology, patient with in situ icdt, cases of empyema in stage 2 and early stage 3, presentation of patients within 2 weeks of symptoms.