Surgical management of a prolonged air leak after lung volume reduction surgery: technical aspects

Abstract

A prolonged air leak is a well-known complication after lung volume reduction surgery that increases hospital stays and morbidities. Adequate management of a prolonged air leak can be challenging, with some patients requiring reintervention. We describe the main technical aspects for identifying and sealing an alveolar-pleural fistula.

Keywords: Alveolar-pleural fistula; Emphysema; Lung Volume Reduction Surgery; Prolonged air leak; Surgical management.