Bronchopleural fistula: successful selective bronchial occlusion with a Fogarty's catheter in a preterm infant

A preterm infant (26 weeks' gestation) mechanically ventilated for respiratory distress syndrome developed severe interstitial emphysema of the right lung with a bronchopleural fistula, pneumothorax and mediastinal shift. Selective occlusion of the right main bronchus with a Fogarty's catheter produced rapid improvement in the clinical condition and radiological features. Occlusion of the main bronchus in a newborn with a bronchopleural fistula and pulmonary interstitial emphysema is an easily performed manoeuvre that can be life-saving.