Homer syndrome after thoracoscopic apicectomy for spontaneous pneumothorax as a complication of chest tube placement.
We describe a case of Horner syndrome occurring secondary only to the high insertion of a chest tube after video-thoracoscopic apicectomy for spontaneous pneumothorax. Because all other causes could be ruled out, the Authors assume that the lesion to the sympathetic nerve fibres was caused by pressure exerted by the tip of the chest tube. Horner syndrome due to this cause can easily be avoided. The tip of the chest tube should be kept at the level of, or below, the third posterior rib, unless the clinical situation dictates otherwise. This cause of Horner syndrome must be taken into account because, if recognized and treated promptly, it can be fully resolved.
Piccoli
Micaela
M
Department of Surgery, S. Agostino Estense Hospital, Modena.
Golinelli
Marco
M
Colli
Giovanni
G
Mullineris
Barbara
B
Melotti
Gianluigi
G
D000328:Adult; D015505:Chest Tubes / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006732:Horner Syndrome / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease; D011030:Pneumothorax / Q000601:surgery*; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D020775:Thoracic Surgery, Video-Assisted