Left pneumonectomy for a second primary tumor after right upper lobectomy for superior sulcus tumor.

We report on a patient who underwent a left pneumonectomy for a second primary lung cancer after a right upper lobectomy and upper chest wall resection for a superior sulcus tumor. Although the postoperative course was complicated by sputum retention which required a temporary tracheostomy the outcome was good and the patient is now living without supplementary oxygen supply. Left pneumonectomy may be considered in patients with previous contralateral lobectomy when the preoperative evaluation of the patient shows an acceptable predicted postoperative pulmonary function. A long-term cure and a good quality of life must, however, be offered.