Impact of pleural symphyses through video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery on the quality-of-life improvement in patients with malignant pleural effusions at the thoracic and cardiovascular surgery unit of the University Hospital of Fann, Senegal

Abstract

Objectives: Malignant pleural effusion, often associated with advanced-stage cancers, causes debilitating symptoms that significantly impact patients’ quality of life. Although pleurodesis through video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is a common treatment for this condition, its effect on quality of life remains poorly documented, particularly in resource-limited settings like Senegal. This study aims to assess the impact of VATS pleurodesis on patients’ quality of life. Material and Methods: We conducted a prospective study over a 5-year period (January 01, 2017–January 01, 2022) in the Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Unit of the University Hospital of Fann. A total of 72 patients with recurrent, suspected, or confirmed malignant pleural effusion were enrolled. Quality of life was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form Health Survey (MOS SF-36). The non-parametric Wilcoxon test was used to compare scores across the eight dimensions of the MOS SF-36 before and after VATS pleurodesis. Results: The mean age of patients was 50 ± 14 years, ranging from 24 to 73 years. Females represented the majority (67%) compared to males (33%), with most women being housewives (48%). VATS pleurodesis significantly improved the physical functioning score ( p < 0.001), role limitations due to physical health ( p = 0.003), bodily pain score ( p = 0.03), general health score ( p < 0.001), vitality score ( p < 0.001), role limitations due to emotional health ( p < 0.001), and mental health score ( p = 0.03). Conclusion: VATS pleurodesis significantly improves the quality of life of patients suffering from recurrent or malignant pleural effusions. The study highlights substantial improvements across several dimensions of the MOS SF-36, such as physical functioning, vitality, and mental health. These findings underscore the importance of assessing quality of life in the management of these patients.