Video-assisted thoracoscopic conservative repair of postoperative lobar torsion

Abstract

Postoperative lobar torsion is a rare and life-threatening complication. Several previous cases have been treated with completion lobectomy. We report successful surgical repair of middle lobar torsion after upper lobectomy. On postoperative day 4, the middle lobe was rotated approximately 150 degrees counterclockwise. The surface of the middle lobe appeared congestive, but its surface color, elasticity, and compliance improved 1 h after detorsion. We preserved the middle lobar function and prescribed warfarin for pulmonary vein thrombosis. When preserving a twisted lobe, it is important to consider the damage to the twisted lung, risk of thrombosis, and residual pulmonary function.