Pleurodesis is the artificial obliteration of the pleural space. It is done to prevent recurrence of pneumothorax or pleural effusion. It can be done chemically or surgically.

Chemicals such as talc, bleomycin or tetracycline can be introduced into the pleural space through a chest drain. The instilled chemicals cause irritation between the parietal and the visceral layers of the pleura which closes off the space between them and prevents further fluid from accumulating.

Chemical pleurodesis is a painful procedure, so patients are usually premedicated with a sedative. A local anesthetic is also instilled into the pleural space.

Surgical pleurodesis is performed via thoracotomy or thoracoscopy.

Pulmonology