Persistent Low-Output Neonatal Chylothorax: How Long Are We Justified to Wait for Pleurodesis in Partial Responders?

ABSTRACT:

Aims

The aim of our study was to review our experience regarding the management of neonatal chylothorax, with particular focus on outcomes of partial responders.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of neonatal chylothorax cases between January 2015 and December 2023. First-line management included drainage, fasting, parenteral nutrition, and octreotide. Good responders had a drainage output of <2 ml/kg/day after 1 week; partial responders had 2-10 ml/kg/day, and non-responders had >10 ml/kg/day or >100 ml/day for 5 days with complications. Partial responders continued conservative management, while non-responders received second-line treatment with bedside iodopovidone chemical pleurodesis.

Results

Thirty-five newborns (15 females, 20 males) were diagnosed w

SUBMITTER: Rollo G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12461794 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature