A double blind randomized cross over trial comparing rate of decortication and efficacy of intrapleural instillation of alteplase vs placebo in patients with empyemas and complicated parapneumonic effusions

Intrapleural instillation of Alteplase is significantly more effective than Placebo in patients with empyema and PPE (95% vs.12%). This study demonstrates it is safe and efficacious with minimal adverse reactions.