Long term results of operation for shrinking pleuritis with atelectasis.

During 14 years 34 patients were operated on for shrinking pleuritis with atelectasis. They were followed up after one to 14 years (mean 6.0) by interview, chest radiography, and spirometry. Most were in good condition, but a reduction in vital capacity had occurred in eight and in FEV1 in 15 patients. Radiographs were normal in 28 patients except for small pleural or parenchymal fibrotic changes. One patient had a suspected recurrence of shrinking pleuritis with atelectasis after nine years, suggesting continuation of the disease process despite operation.