Pleural procedures and pleuroscopy

Pleural procedures are commonly performed by physicians from a range of specialities. These procedures vary in complexity, from relatively straightforward pleural aspiration to more challenging procedures such as pleuroscopy. After appropriate training, even complex pleural procedures have a low risk of complications. Nevertheless, an appreciation of procedural risks is essential for physician training and forms the crux of a valid patient consent process. This review presents a systematic evaluation of the potential complications of common pleural procedures.