[A case of refractory pulmonary fistula, managed with bronchoscopic therapy using occluding spiral embolus].

ABSTRACT

We report a successful case of bronchoscopic therapy using occluding spiral embolus and fibrin glue for refractory pulmonary fistula. A 22-year-old female underwent left lower lobectomy for giant bulla of the lung. Air leakage began 6 days after lobectomy. Closing alveolar fistula was performed 12 days after first operation. Relapsing air leakage began 4 days after second operation. Bronchography revealed a fistula from left B1+2c. The insertion of embolus through bronchofiberscope, following administration of fibrin glue, was performed to close the fistula. This method is effective for refractory pulmonary fistula.