Comparison of Outcomes Between Low and Standard Dose Intrapleural tPA for Pleural Infection
Pleural Infection
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Pleural Infection
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Clinical features suggesting uncontrolled pleural infection with incomplete drainage of pleural effusion, at least 1 day after insertion of pleural drain (French size 12 or above) and administration of antibiotics. Intend to administer intrapleural fibrinolytic Written informed consent obtained Exclusion Criteria: Previously received intrapleural tPA to the ipsilateral pleural space for the current episode of pleural infection. Known sensitivity to tPA or DNase. A coincidental stroke, major haemorrhage or major trauma. Frank bleeding or evidence of puncture to the intercostal artery during chest drain insertion. Ongoing frank bleeding from the ipsilateral pleural space. Has had puncture of a non-compressible vessel in the previous 14 days. Has had major surgery in the previous 14 days. Has had unprovoked gastrointestinal bleeding or intracranial haemorrhage in the last 3 months. Active use of anticoagulation (except prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis) or dual-antiplatelet agents. Active use of any systemic fibrinolytic therapy or any airway DNase therapy. On long-term macrolide antibiotics (as they may interact with DNase). Uncorrectable bleeding diathesis or baseline INR > 1.5. Has had a previous pneumonectomy (either on the same or contralateral side). Presence of active bronchopleural fistula. Age less than 18 years old. Patients who are pregnant or lactating (females of childbearing potential must have a negative pregnancy test before randomisation). Expected survival less than three months from a different pathology to this empyema (e.g. metastatic lung carcinoma). Use of agents under research or not registered in the 30 days prior to the study. Inability to give informed consent.
Sites / Locations
- Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Prince of Wales Hospital
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Experimental
Active Comparator
Low dose tPA
Standard dose tPA
Patients with pleural infection and will receive a starting dose of tPA at 2.5mg
Patients with pleural infection and will receive a starting dose of tPA at 10mg