A simple solution for management of the postpneumonectomy empyema cavity.
Postpneumonectomy bronchopleural fistula with empyema is a difficult problem. Once the fistula is healed, successful closure of the pleural space is associated with varying degrees of success, as well as the potential for major reconstructive surgery. My colleagues and I describe a simple approach for the definitive management of the open pleural space involving split-thickness skin grafts to marsupialize the pleural cavity.
Kent
Michael S
MS
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York 10021, USA.
Korst
Robert J
RJ
Gayle
Lloyd B
LB
Port
Jeffrey L
JL
Altorki
Nasser K
NK
D020341:Absorbable Implants; D000714:Anastomosis, Surgical; D001983:Bronchial Fistula / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D016724:Empyema, Pleural / Q000382:microbiology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009181:Mycoses / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D010369:Pectoralis Muscles / Q000601:surgery; D011013:Pneumonectomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012008:Recurrence; D012272:Ribs / Q000601:surgery; D016038:Skin Transplantation / Q000379:methods*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013536:Suture Techniques