[Surgical intervention for residual space empyema and bronchopleural fistula after major pulmonary resection]

Residual space empyema, that is a life threatening complication after major pulmonary resection, is based on postresectional hematoma, wound suppuration, and/or bronchopleurl fistula, demanding different strategies from parapneumonic empyema. Optimal managements should be occasionally completed in relation to the patient's physical conditions, serological findings, pathogens, and bronchopleural fistula. Bronchoscopic intervention can be a useful tool for a bronchopleural fistula when small. Thoracoscopic intervention can overcome the intractable residual space empyema. These interventions can save such invasive procedure as open window thoracotomy or thoracoplasty leading to damage pulmonary function as well as cosmetics, and prolong hospitalization. Vacuum-assisted closure system other than conventional thoracoplasty or thoracomyoplasty can be of help to obliterate the residual space empyema cavity after open window thoracotomy.