[Reoperation for left main bronchial stump fistula developing after pneumonectomy]

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Pulmonary Medicine
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Pneumonectomy is a major surgery for lung cancer.
• Bronchial stump fistula is a rare but serious complication following pneumonectomy.
• Early detection and management are crucial for patient recovery.

Observation:

• A 71-year-old male developed a bronchial stump fistula post-left pneumonectomy for lung adenocarcinoma.
• Symptoms included persistent cough and radiographic evidence of air-fluid level drop.
• Bronchoscopic findings confirmed the fistula, necessitating reoperation.

Findings:

• Reoperation involved dissecting pulmonary vessels and the left main bronchus.
• The bronchial stump was resected and closed with a stapler near the carina.
• The patient recovered uneventfully after the second surgery.

Implications:

• A shorter bronchial stump length may be a key factor in preventing bronchial stump fistulas.
• This case highlights the importance of surgical technique in minimizing postoperative complications.
• Further research into optimal bronchial stump management is warranted.