Ultrasound-guided lymphangiography and interventional embolization of chylous leaks following esophagectomy.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Postoperative chylothorax is a serious complication after transthoracic esophagectomy, and is associated with major morbidity due to dehydration and malnutrition. For patients with high-output fistula, re-thoracotomy with ligation of the thoracic duct is the treatment of choice. Radiologic interventional management is an innovative procedure that has the potential to replace surgery in the treatment algorithm.

Methods

Four patients with high-output chylous leaks following esophagectomy are presented. Ultrasound-guided lymphangiography with embolization of the thoracic duct and/or disruption of the cisterna chyli was performed to occlude the leakage site. Radiologic interventions and procedure-related outcomes are described in detail.

Results

In all four pat

SUBMITTER: Lambertz R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6817730 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature