Thoracoscopic ultrasonic coagulation of thoracic duct in management of postoperative chylothorax
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Updated: Sep 30, 2026

Thoracoscopic Extended Right Middle Plus Lower Sleeve Lobectomy for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Published on: February 27, 2026
Sadanori Takeo1, Koji Yamazaki, Mikako Takagi
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Kyushu Medical Center, Fukuoka, Japan. sada@qmed.hosp.go.jp
Abstract:
Chylothorax is a rare but potentially serious complication of cardiac operations. We report here a 72-year-old man who underwent replacement of a descending aneurysm with a synthetic graft for dissecting aneurysm (IIIa). A persistent postoperative chylothorax developed, which necessitated continuous drainage, despite conservative treatment more than 12 days. Thoracoscopic high-frequency ultrasonic coagulation of the thoracic duct without clipping finally stopped chyle production. This method may be useful from the standpoint of minimal access, rapid recovery, less pain, and a shorter operation.
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