Thoracentesis in post-CABG setting is usually indicated only for late onset effusions (or early onset effusions that may be infected or increasing in size)
Treatment
Spontaneous Resolution: resolves within several weeks after surgery
Thoracoscopy: may be indicated for evaluation of late onset effusion
May allow release of trapped lung or may reveal pleural peel that requires decortication
Talc pleurodesis: indicated for recurrent effusion if no pleural peel is present
