Computed Tomography-Guided Percutaneous Thoracic Duct Sclero-Embolization for Persistent Chylothorax

Innovations (Phila). 2016 Jul-Aug;11(4):291-4. doi: 10.1097/IMI.0000000000000289.

Abstract

Postoperative chylous leak is often a consequence of thoracic duct injury during surgical procedures. Persistent chylothorax can be an extremely morbid condition. The authors describe a case of a refractory and long-standing chylous leak after thoracotomy for mediastinal lymphangioma removal. The patient was treated with a computed tomography-guided percutaneous thoracic duct sclero-embolization after failure of the conventional therapies. The chest tube output abruptly decreased after the procedure and was removed at 13th day. Percutaneous thoracic duct sclero-embolization proved to be safe and effective in the treatment of a persistent chylothorax.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chylothorax / etiology
  • Chylothorax / therapy*
  • Embolization, Therapeutic / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymphangioma / surgery*
  • Mediastinal Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Thoracic Duct / surgery
  • Thoracotomy / adverse effects*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
  • Treatment Outcome