Residual cavities

Joseph, T.J. (1953) Residual cavities. Indian Journal of Tuberculosis, 1 (1). pp. 13-16.

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Abstract

In its later stages, tuberculosis is often a localized disease and then the treatment is largely surgical; and very often the chances of a cure turn around the almost mechanical problem of the closure of a cavity. In pre-collapse therapy days a large tubercular cavity in the lung meant almost certain death to the patient. But now, fortunately, we have at our disposal a variety of collapse measures which, singly or in combination, can close the majority of cavities, completely. However, all who practice this form of treatment will be aware of the difficulties of effective cavity closure. It often happens that during the course of col-lapse measures cavities become much reduced in size or are converted into slits or chinks but refuse to close completely. These residual cavities are trying problems to the physician and surgeon. The purpose of this article is to indicate some aspects of the technique of collapse therapy which may help to prevent residual cavities and also to mention some of the methods used in dealing with such cavities when they have occurred.

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