Catheter drainage of symptomatic postoperative mediastinal effusion guided by computed tomography. A nonoperative approach.

Postoperative mediastinal effusion after cardiac operations is a common phenomenon and has a potential for serious complications, such as tamponade necessitating urgent drainage. Computed tomography of the chest provides excellent postoperative visualization of the mediastinum. Catheter insertion or paracentesis guided by computed tomography has been used to accomplish nonoperative drainage of symptomatic postoperative mediastinal effusion in six cases. This technique offers simplicity, safety, and cost effectiveness.