Thoracoscopic repair for a pleuroperitoneal communication in a child on peritoneal dialysis.
Massive hydrothorax is an uncommon complication in children on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). In this paper, we present a case of a 6-year-old child on CAPD presenting with an acute hydrothorax after the introduction of peritoneal dialysis. The diagnosis was confirmed with thoracocentesis and comparing the presence of high glucose concentration in the aspirate to that of the serum. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery was performed, and a pleuroperitoneal communication was found and repaired. CAPD was resumed 1 week later. We recommend thoracoscopic repair as the first-choice method for repair of pleuroperitoneal communications in pediatric patients.
van Niekerk
Martin L
ML
Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa. mlvanniekerk@axxess.co.za
Visser
Andre
A
D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006876:Hydrothorax / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery*; D007676:Kidney Failure, Chronic / Q000628:therapy; D010531:Peritoneal Dialysis, Continuous Ambulatory / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013906:Thoracoscopy / Q000379:methods*