Decortication

Decortication (pronounced: deh-kor-ti-KAY-shun) is a medical procedure that involves the surgical removal of the surface layer, membrane, or fibrous cover of an organ. The term is derived from the Latin de- (meaning "removal of") and cortex (meaning "shell" or "husk").

The procedure is most commonly associated with the lungs, where it is used to remove the fibrous layer covering the lung (pleura) when it becomes thickened and restrictive due to conditions such as chronic pleural effusion or empyema. This allows the lung to expand and function more effectively.

Decortication can also refer to a neurosurgical procedure where the outer layer of the brain (cerebral cortex) is removed. This is typically done to treat neurological conditions such as epilepsy.

Procedure

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the chest wall and removes the thickened pleura. The lung is then able to expand more fully. The procedure can be performed through open surgery or using a minimally invasive technique known as Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS).

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, decortication carries risks including infection, bleeding, and reaction to anesthesia. Specific to this procedure, there may also be a risk of lung damage or prolonged air leak.