[Pulmonary aspergilloma surgery: a mono-institutional experience]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Mycology

Context:

• Pulmonary aspergilloma, a fungal infection in lung cavities, presents significant challenges.
• Surgical resection is the primary curative treatment but carries risks.
• Controversy exists regarding surgical safety due to potential perioperative and postoperative complications.

Purpose:

• To analyze the surgical treatment outcomes for pulmonary aspergilloma.
• To evaluate prognostic factors influencing patient survival after surgery.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of surgical resection in a specialized cardiothoracic center.

Summary:

• A 10-year retrospective analysis of 22 patients undergoing surgery for pulmonary aspergilloma.
• Atypical lung resections were most common (55%), with a 5% operative mortality.
• Postoperative complications occurred in 36%, including pneumothorax and empyema; 5-year mortality was 35%.

Impact:

• Surgical resection demonstrates low morbidity and mortality for pulmonary aspergilloma.
• It is the preferred treatment for patients with adequate lung function.
• Findings support surgical intervention as a viable and effective management strategy.