A 92-year-old patient with thoracic empyema successfully treated by CT-guided insertion of a pigtail catheter

We present a case report of a 92-year-old patient with thoracic empyema, who was successfully treated via CT-guided insertion of a pigtail catheter. The advanced age of the patient often poses challenges in managing pyothorax due to limited physical activity and cognitive decline stemming from decreased activities of daily living. In instances where thoracic drainage is not feasible, the course of treatment is protracted and the prognosis is poor. Our case report exemplifies the successful treatment of pyothorax in a geriatric patient via CT-guided insertion of a pigtail catheter. We believe that this educational case serves as a testament to the fact that even the most aged patients can be successfully treated with resourcefulness.

Automated summary

We report a successful case of treating thoracic empyema in a 92-year-old patient by CT-guided insertion of a pigtail catheter. Managing pyothorax in elderly patients poses challenges due to limited physical activity and cognitive decline. Our case exemplifies the successful treatment of pyothorax in geriatric patients, highlighting the possibility of successful treatment even in the most aged individuals.