Radiologic Assessment of Bronchopleural Fistula with Empyema

Simple methylene blue or ether bedside tests or radionuclide inhalation may disclose bronchopleural fistulas but provide no information as to size, number, or location. These facts are essential: a small fistula may close spontaneously and a large one require surgery. A sinogram is believed the procedure of choice to delineate a peripherally situated small fistula. A large or centrally located one can be visualized by bronchoscopy. Selective bronchography can demonstrate fistulas which are either central or peripheral.