PleurX semi-permanent chest drain

[AuntyE]

Hi, I have just had my 2nd chest drain in the space of 3 weeks after my ovarian cancer has spread to the pleura of my right lung.

My oncology team are suggesting a semi-permanent drain be fitted within the next few weeks. I was just wondering if anyone has experience of this and whether it was a positive move and if it helped manage the disease.

Many thanks

[Lyndy]

Hello AuntyE, I had a pleurex drain on both sides in 2020. They were a massive improvement on the temporary ones and meant that I could manage the draining myself. They dried up during chemo and were removed.

I would recommend xx

[AuntyE in reply to Lyndy]

Thank you Lyndy, I know it’s the sensible option but it just seems like a big progression in my disease but I’m reassured that you had yours in 2020 and have had them removed. I’ve started Caelyx recently so I’m hoping that will dry the fluid up.

😊xx

[Vinney52]

Hi - my Mum was recently hospitalised with fluid on her lungs after many months of being free of this problem. In the end they fitted one permanent (?) drain and 'glued' the lining of the other lung together. So far this seems to have worked well for her and there is less and less fluid being found in the drain, and the other lung is clear.

Hope this helps!

[AuntyE in reply to Vinney52]

Thank you Vinney52. It’s good to hear that it’s been positive for your mum and that she’s doing well - long may that continue!

😊xx

[Motiva]

Hello Aunty E,

It is an awful feeling having a pleural space full of fluid. The insertion of drain allows you to take control of the fluid until the chemo reduces the formation. It soon becomes part of your new routine. It stops you swimming or being submerged in water but you can shower ok. It didn’t hurt other than on one occasions when the surrounding skin got infected . All the best it is worthwhile adjustment. X

[AuntyE in reply to Motiva]

Thank you for your reply Motiva, I’ve had a phone call today from my CNS and I’m having a chest xray next week and seeing my doctor to discuss when to have the PleurX drain fitted so things are moving forward. I’ve been reassured by the positive experiences of those who have replied to me - thank you 😊xx

[Leniko]

i’m so sorry you have to go through this. I have never had that procedure, but I did have a chest port put in to receive infusions since it was so hard for them to find a vein. If this procedure will keep you more comfortable, then it sounds like a good idea, good luck to you

[AuntyE in reply to Leniko]

Thank you Leniko for taking the time to respond to my question - a port or picc line will probably be the next issue for me, my veins are not the best either!! Many thanks ☺️ xx

[Leniko in reply to AuntyE]

I Never looked back. My chest port has made my infusions SO much more tolerable! 😜