The prevalence and management of bronchial anastomotic complications in lung transplantation.
The prevalence and management of bronchial anastomosis complications have been assessed in a series of 53 patients undergoing lung transplantation. Of the 50 patients subsequently at risk of airway complications, these problems occurred in seven (14%). Only one patient died as a direct result of the airway complication (2%). Four patients required airway stenting, and their management is discussed. Although airway healing is normal in the majority of patients undergoing lung transplantation (86%), when deficits occur they can usually be successfully managed with conservative treatment. Bronchial stenting may be required on either a temporary or a permanent basis.
Schafers
H J
HJ
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo.
Haydock
D A
DA
Cooper
J D
JD
D000328:Adult; D000714:Anastomosis, Surgical; D001980:Bronchi / Q000601:surgery*; D001995:Bronchography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016040:Lung Transplantation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D015607:Stents; D013529:Surgical Wound Dehiscence / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed