A Rare Case of Chylothorax Following a Redo Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a highly prevalent disease. Mechanical etiology, including hiatal hernia, can be resistant to empiric proton pump inhibitor (PPI) trials; Nissen fundoplication is commonly used to treat mechanical GERD. Chylothorax is a rare complication of abdominal surgeries, including anti-reflux procedures. In this case report, a 75-year-old female presented with shortness of breath following a redo laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. Chest CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) showed bilateral large pleural effusions that were managed by fluid restriction, repeated thoracocentesis, and chest tube insertion; the pleural fluid analysis was significant for fluid triglycerides high at 232 mg/dL which was diagnostic for chylothorax. The patient was treated conservatively. Appropriate management of chylothorax is crucial to avoid subsequent respiratory failure, immunodeficiency, and malnutrition. Chylomicrons and triglycerides in the pleural fluid can be diagnostic for chylothorax. Treatment of chylothorax includes three main approaches: controlling the cause, conservative treatment, and surgical interventions.