Traditionally, cancer patients suffering from chronic pleural effusions have faced extended hospitalization, discomfort and time away from home. Now there's a better alternative. The innovative Pleurx Pleural Catheter enables physicians to manage pleural effusions in a home setting.

A Welcome Solution

Physicians are now implanting the Pleurx Pleural Catheter for a quick and easy solution for pleural effusion that involve minimal patient discomfort. Simple, yet sophisticated, the Pleurx Pleural Catheter is soft, flexible and readily conforms to the pleural space. A unique valve on the catheter simplifies drainage and prevents inadvertent leakage of air or fluid. The Pleurx system also provides drainage kits for home use that includes lightweight plastic vacuum bottles and ancillary items needed for daily drainage procedures.

Effective relief and proven performance

In a large multi-center trial, the Pleurx was shown to provide relief of dyspnea, an improved sense of well being and better quality of life. Approximately half of patients treated with the Pleurx Pleural Catheter can be expected to achieve pleurodesis, with a median time to pleurodesis and catheter removal of 29 days.

Steps to Successful Use of the Pleurx Pleural Catheter

Prior to Procedure

Step 1. If the patient is a candidate for Pleurx, determine the patient's insurance coverage for home supplies:

To ensure delivery of drainage supplies to the patients home and to determine the patients insurance coverage, complete the Prescription and Insurance Information Form and fax it to Denver Biomedical, Inc (fax # 866-838-3739).

Yes, the patient has insurance coverage for Pleurx. Go to Step 2.

No, the patient can't afford what's not covered by insurance or has no coverage. We can still help! Contact the regional manager in your area for some solutions, by calling (800) 824-8454.

Step 2. Order the Pleurx catheter and drainage kits.

To order the Pleurx catheter kit (50-7000), contact Customer Service at 800-824-8454. Note: when ordering the Pleurx catheter, it is suggested that a case of drainage kits (50-7500) be ordered as well. These kits should be sent home with the patient for their initial drainages.

Step 3. Plan for the patient’s discharge.

Contact a Patient Care Representative to arrange for additional drainage supplies.

Step 4. Place the Pleurx Catheter. Click placement information for help with catheter placement.

Post Procedure

Step 5. Notify Denver Biomedical that the catheter was placed, and an estimated discharge date.

Step 6. Plan for post-procedure care.

Ensure that the primary caregiver and the patient are trained on the drainage procedure. View drainage video or Drainage Booklet.

Step 7. Send the patient home with a supply of drainage kits.

Step 8. Arrange for additional drainage supplies.

Have the patient contact Denver Biomedical ASAP to arrange for delivery of additional drainage supplies.