Video-assisted thoracoscopic iodopovidone pleurodesis for malignant pleural effusions in moderate to high-risk Colombian patients

Introduction: In developing countries where talc may not be readily available, videoassisted thoracoscopic (VATS) iodopovidone pleurodesis offers an excellent alternative for the treatment of malignant pleural effusions (MPEs). Methods: This study analyzes a retrospective experience using VATS iodopovidone pleurodesis for malignant pleural effusions at a single cardiothoracic center in the capital of Colombia evaluating success according to LENT (Lactate, Eastern Cooperative Oncology GroupECOG, NeutrophilLymphocyte ratio, Tumor type) scores. A total of 75 records of patients taken to VATS iodopovidone pleurodesis for MPEs were retrieved from our institutional database during a 5year period from 20142019. Of these, 45 had complete clinical history data necessary to analyze both LENT scores and postop followup imaging. Results: Of the 45 patients evaluated, 93.3% (42 patients) had either complete resolution of pleural effusions or partial resolution with an asymptomatic recovery within the first month post op. Chest pain was the most common postoperative complaint, which was present in 20% of patients. The mean postoperative ECOG score was 2±1.7. Patients with moderate to highrisk LENT scores had success rates of 96.7% and 92.3% respectively. Conclusion: Videoassisted thoracoscopic pleurodesis using Iodopovidoneiodine is an effective approach for MPEs. In developing countries where Iodopovidone iodine is readily available and affordable, patients may benefit from this agent with excellent results and minimal complications.