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Thoracoscopic Extended Right Middle Plus Lower Sleeve Lobectomy for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Published on: February 27, 2026
Accelerated treatment for post-lobectomy empyema: new indication for an established procedure
A Wolthuis1, R Krishnadas, R Berrisford
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Royal Devon and Exeter Foundation Hospital Trust, Exeter, United Kingdom.
The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon
|August 16, 2008
Summary
A delayed empyema after non-small cell lung cancer surgery was successfully treated using accelerated cleansing principles. This safe and effective approach is recommended for patients with pleural space infections after lung resection.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Oncology
Background:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment often involves lung resection.
- Empyema, a serious complication, can arise after thoracic surgery.
- Delayed-onset empyema presents unique management challenges.
Observation:
- A 68-year-old male developed a delayed empyema following a right upper lobectomy for NSCLC.
- The infected pleural space required intervention.
- The Weder group's principles for accelerated treatment of post-pneumonectomy empyema were applied.
Findings:
- The infected pleural space was successfully cleansed using the accelerated treatment strategy.
- This approach proved safe and effective in managing the empyema.
- The strategy's efficacy extended to cases of pleural space infection after minor lung resections.
Implications:
- The accelerated cleansing strategy is a viable treatment option for empyema post-lung resection.
- This method offers a potentially improved alternative to established techniques.
- Further consideration of this approach in clinical practice is warranted for managing post-surgical empyema.
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