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Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for primary spontaneous pneumothorax in children

Si Young Choi1, Yong Hwan Kim, Keon Hyon Jo

  • 1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Uijeongbu St Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.

Pediatric Surgery International
|February 13, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is effective for pediatric primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP). However, children have a higher recurrence risk than young adults, linked to new bullae formation.

Area of Science:

  • Thoracic Surgery
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • Recurrence prevention after primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) in children remains controversial.
  • Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is a common treatment modality.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of VATS for treating pediatric PSP.
  • To compare recurrence rates between pediatric and young adult patients undergoing VATS for PSP.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 257 patients (281 VATS procedures) aged under 29 years.
  • Patients were stratified into two groups: children (<17 years) and young adults (≥18 years).
  • Follow-up averaged 47.1 months.

Main Results:

  • Overall recurrence rate was 6.8% with no observed mortality.
  • The recurrence rate was significantly higher in the children's group (10.6%) compared to young adults (3.9%).
  • Younger age and prolonged air leak were identified as risk factors for recurrence.

Conclusions:

  • VATS is a safe and effective treatment for pediatric PSP.
  • Children undergoing VATS for PSP exhibit a higher risk of recurrence.
  • The increased recurrence risk in children may be associated with the formation of new bullae.
Abstract

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