Pleurodesis using 50% glucose solution for air leak after pulmonary resection: a multi-center retrospective study.

Purpose: To assess the usefulness of and predictive factors for pleurodesis using 50% glucose solution to treat air leak after pulmonary resection.

Methods: The subjects of this retrospective study were 70 patients from three Japanese institutions, who were treated with 50% glucose solution for postoperative air leak between April, 2015 and March, 2023. Air leak was monitored using a digital drainage system. We analyzed the patient characteristics, surgical details, and outcomes. Successful pleurodesis was defined as control of the air leak within two attempts and no recurrence within 1 month after drain removal. Predictors of success were identified using multivariable logistic regression.

Results: Pleurodesis with 50% glucose solution treated air leak successfully in 58 patients (83%), with a median time from resection to pleurodesis of 4 days. Air leak control was achieved within 2 days in 93% of these patients. Air leak volume < 300 mL/min before pleurodesis and an air space rate < 10% calculated on chest radiograph were independent predictors of success. The success rate for patients with both or none of these factors was 97% and 29%, respectively. No life-threatening complications were observed.

Conclusions: Pleurodesis using 50% glucose solution could be useful for managing postoperative air leak, especially in patients with an air leak volume < 300 mL/min and an air space rate < 10%.