A new classification of bronchial anastomosis after sleeve lobectomy

Ischemia and infection of the distal part of the tracheobronchial anastomosis are the leading causes of bronchial anastomotic leakage with a high morbidity and mortality. To improve interpretation of healing of the anastomosis and the consequences, we have developed a classification scheme that allows quality control and defines early and standardized treatment of complications.

We conducted a retrospective analysis of the records of 202 patients treated in our institution between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2010 after sleeve lobectomy. All patients received prophylactic inhalation with tobramycin 80 mg twice a day. Neoadjuvant treatment was given in 21% of the patients. Routine bronchoscopy on day 7 was performed with classification of the anastomosis as follows: X, unknown; 1, healing well with no fibrin deposits; 2, focal fibrin deposits and superficial (mucosal) necrosis; 3, circular fibrin deposits, superficial (mucosal) necrosis, and/or ischemia of the distal mucosa; 4, transmural necrosis with instability of the anastomosis; and 5, perforation, necrosis of the anastomosis, and insufficiency.

The anastomosis was graded as satisfactory (1 and 2) in 86% of the patients. In 14%, it was regarded as critical (≥3-5) leading to systemic antibiotic treatment and control bronchoscopy. The overall 30-day mortality was 1%.

Quality control of the tracheobronchial anastomosis comprised bronchoscopy performed before patients were dismissed. Inasmuch as postoperative bronchoscopy is not always performed by the operating surgeon, this classification is an aid to improve the description of endobronchial healing and to commence treatment of critical bronchial healing.