t 407 ] 
LXVI. The Cafe of the Operation of the Em- 
py em a, t juccefsfully performed by Mr , J ofeph 
Warner, p, R., S, and Sur?eo?i to Guy’f 
Hofpital. 
Read March lgj | E fymptoms of an empyema, cr 
1752 1 of a collection of matter depofited 
in the cavity of the thorax , are fufficiently known to 
every one of experience in phyfick and furgery. But 
the great uncertainty of fuccefs attending the evacuation 
of this matter by operation, hasoccafiond furgeons of 
the greateft eminence to differ about the propriety of 
the performance of it. 
However, as it is notorious, that upon any quantity 
of extra vafated fluid being confined to the thorax , 
the patient not only labours under the moft uneafy 
fenfations, but is in very great danger from the 
injury and oppreflion, to which the lungs are expofed, 
in confequence of the difeafe ; and that the fuccefs 
of the operation greatly depends upon the degree of 
injury communicated to the lungs, and the reft of 
the contents of the thorax ; I am inclined to think, 
for thefe reafons, as well as from the little danger 
there is in the performance of the operation, that it is 
always to be recommended upon the appearance of 
fuch fymptoms, as indicate fuch a collection of matter : 
and whether the following cafe may be fome proof 
of its propriety under certain circumftances, I beg 
leave to fubmit to your confideration. 
Thomas 
