
Pleural membrane is a moist, thin, slippery two layered membrane. The parietal, or outer, pleura lines present inside the diaphragm and rib cage whereas the visceral or pulmonary, inner layer cover the lungs. Intrapleural space is present between these two layers, which typically consists of fluid secreted by these membranes. Pleural catheters) are considered to be one of the most important tools for managing recurring pleural effusions. MPE (Malignant pleural effusion) is one often occurring cause of life deterioration among patients suffering with advanced cancer. The management available for these effusions include the placement of tunneled pleural catheters, and also chemical pleurodesis with any sclerosing agent like talc powder or doxycycline, or surgery. According to various researches conducted in the United States, approximately 150,000 people are affected with malignant pleural effusion every year. It is also considered to occur in around 15% of patients diagnosed with advanced malignancies, majorly, breast cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and lymphoma. Ovarian cancer is considered to account for around 50% of the malignant pleural effusion cases in the United States. A pleural catheter is used at times when these malignant pleural effusion becomes symptomatic and recurs post thoracentesis, majorly in the patient with trapped lung or with low to moderate life expectancy, or who underwent unsuccessful pleurodesis.