Mashuk A Khan1, Shameen Jaunoo, Abheesh Prasad, Lam C Tan. 1. Warwickshire Surgical Research Group, University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK. Electronic address: Mashuk.khan@hotmail.com.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Transhiatal oesophagectomy is a widely accepted technique for resection of tumours of the lower oesophagus. We present a life-threatening complication associated with the placement of a corrugated neck drain during this procedure. PRESENTATION OF CASE: Our patient underwent a transhiatal oesophagectomy for a lower oesophageal tumour. He developed persistent bilateral pneumothoraces despite chest drain insertions. Following removal of the corrugated neck drain, both lungs were successfully re-inflated. DISCUSSION: To the authors' knowledge, this serious complication has been described only once before in the medical literature; other surgeons should be made aware of this problem. CONCLUSION: Alternative drainage systems should be considered to help prevent this injury. Exercise caution if positioning corrugated drains in the neck.
INTRODUCTION: Transhiatal oesophagectomy is a widely accepted technique for resection of tumours of the lower oesophagus. We present a life-threatening complication associated with the placement of a corrugated neck drain during this procedure. PRESENTATION OF CASE: Our patient underwent a transhiatal oesophagectomy for a lower oesophageal tumour. He developed persistent bilateral pneumothoraces despite chest drain insertions. Following removal of the corrugated neck drain, both lungs were successfully re-inflated. DISCUSSION: To the authors' knowledge, this serious complication has been described only once before in the medical literature; other surgeons should be made aware of this problem. CONCLUSION: Alternative drainage systems should be considered to help prevent this injury. Exercise caution if positioning corrugated drains in the neck.
Authors: J B Hulscher; E ter Hofstede; J Kloek; H Obertop; P De Haan; J J Van Lanschot Journal: J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg Date: 2000-12 Impact factor: 5.209
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