Objectives: To determine the incidence of and risk factors associated with pneumothorax after donor nephroureterectomy and to determine the utility of postoperative chest roentgenography.
Methods: A retrospective review was made of 130 living donor nephroureterectomies performed at one institution (Yale-New Haven Hospital) using an extraperitoneal flank incision.
Results: Incidental pleurotomy occurred in 11 cases (8.5%). Rib resection was associated with pleurotomy. Patient age, sex, and side of operation were not associated with pleurotomy. Ten (91 %) of the 11 cases were identified intraoperatively. One unrecognized pneumothorax was identified postoperatively with chest roentgenography; no specific intervention was necessary.
Conclusions: The extraperitoneal flank incision poses a significant risk for pneumothorax. Most pneumothoraces will be recognized intraoperatively. No adverse effects were noted secondary to pneumothorax.