Long-term results of the surgical treatment for pulmonary malformations and disorders

Of the 1029 thoracic surgeries carried out since 1950 at the Second and later at the Third Surgical, University Clinic in Budapest on infants, children, and adolescents 215 were cases to correct some developmental anomaly. Pulmonary cysts--both single and multiple--represent the largest number, followed by lung-sequestration, lobar emphysema, and bronchial arterioma. To assess the late results, 106 ex-patients were invited to the clinic for check-up. They had beed operated at least 10 years before; the longest follow-up time was 23 years. Eighty-nine (83.9%) of the 106 patients appeared at the clinic. One pulmonectomized for a polycystic lung (0.9%) died in the meantime; 16 were not available. The 89 patients were submitted to a clinical examination, including radiological examination, spirometry, and ECG. With one exception (Kartagener syndrome), they were found in good condition and free of complaints. They carried on some studies or worked in different jobs. There were no relapses. They developed very satisfactorily no matter whether their operations took place in infancy, childhood or adolescence. The surgical intervention did not affect growth and development. Congenital pulmonary malformations and disorders should be treated by surgery, and the long-term results are better if the operation is performed at the proper time.