Middle Lobe Torsion after Unilateral Lung Transplant

J Radiol Case Rep. 2016 May 31;10(5):15-21. doi: 10.3941/jrcr.v10i5.2761. eCollection 2016 May.

Abstract

Lobar torsion is well documented after pneumonectomy, but is very rare after lung transplant. To the best of our knowledge, this is the twelfth reported case of lobar torsion after lung transplant. In our case, bronchoscopies and chest radiographs were inconclusive; however, CT scan clearly demonstrated findings consistent with right middle lobe torsion. We review the literature and discuss the epidemiology, clinical presentation, imaging features, and treatment considerations for this condition. We also propose that if a clinical picture could be secondary to torsion and bronchoscopies and chest x ray are inconclusive that a CT scan should be obtained as soon as possible since early recognition increases the likelihood of being able to successfully detorse the lung and avoid lobectomy.

Keywords: Atelectasis; Complication of Lung Transplant; Lobar torsion; Lobectomy; Lung transplant.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Humans
  • Lung Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lung Diseases / surgery
  • Lung Transplantation*
  • Male
  • Pneumonectomy
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • Torsion Abnormality / diagnostic imaging*
  • Torsion Abnormality / surgery