[Indications, techniques, complications and results of sleeve lobectomy]

The authors analyse their personal series and compare it with reported data in order to assess the functional results sleeve lobectomy offers with respect to traditional techniques.

Sixty-six sleeve lobectomies were carried out from 1986 to 2000. In 49 cases the operation was carried out on the basis of criteria of choice and in 17 of functional necessity. Three vascular sleeves and 5 tangential vascular plastic operations were associated. The disparity of lumen was corrected with oblique sections on the intermediate bronchus according to Merendino. In the case of reimplantation of the intermediate on the left main bronchus high frequency jet ventilation was necessary. The anatomoses were covered with broad pedunculated pleural strips. In 3 cases extramucosal myectomy of the medio-thoracic esophagus was carried out associated in 1 case with mucous resection and subsequent direct suture.

Morbility was 34.5% (21% atrial fibrillation, 7.5% parenchymal complications, 4.5% anastomotic complications and 1.5% mediastinitis). Mortality at 30 days was 6% (massive hemoptysis in 3 cases and respiratory failure in 1 case). The pTNM of the 57 survivors was IB in 35 cases, IIB in 6 and IIIA in 16. Follow-up showed 5-year survival of 62% for stage IB and 24% for stage IIIA.

On the basis of their experience, with a postoperative mortality and a rate of complications comparable to literature data, the authors consider that sleeve lobectomy, although it presents postoperative problems requiring more prolonged clinical control, is preferable to traditional operations because of the functional advantages it offers patients with lung cancer.