Combination of Pulmonary Tractotomy and Free Subcutaneous Fat Pad Coverage for Iatrogenic Lung Injury Caused by Chest Tube Insertion.

ABSTRACT

Iatrogenic lung injury caused by chest tube insertion is a potential complication that requires careful attention, and thoracic surgeons should be knowledgeable about the appropriate management strategies if complications arise. This report describes a successful procedure for treating an iatrogenic lung injury. An 80-year-old Japanese man with severe emphysema complaining of breathlessness was diagnosed with a right secondary pneumothorax. Computed tomography revealed moderate adhesions in the thoracic cavity. Chest tube drainage was performed. Lung expansion was insufficient and massive air leakage continued. Repeat computed tomography showed the chest tube inserted into the right upper lobe. Thus, pulmonary tractotomy followed by free fat pad coverage was performed to successfully treat the iatrogenic lung injury caused by chest tube insertion. Since no air leakage was observed postoperatively, the chest tube was removed on the third postoperative day. The patient was discharged after two weeks of rehabilitation. Pulmonary tractotomy combined with free subcutaneous fat pad coverage would be effective for repairing iatrogenic lung injuries in patients with severe emphysema.