Transsternal transpericardial bronchopleural fistula repair

Post-pneumonectomy bronchopleural fistula with empyema is a rare complication with devastating consequences that can occur at any time following pneumonectomy. Over the years multiple methods have been developed to treat this morbid condition. The most frequently utilized procedure to manage a bronchopleural fistula is a redo thoracotomy with fistula repair and muscular flap coverage. However, this necessitates operating in densely fibrotic tissue planes, does not allow thorough dissection of the fistula, and has a high rate of recurrence.
Source: Operative Techniques in Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery - Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Authors: Source Type: research