Toloza EM, Harpole DH. Intraoperative techniques to prevent air leaks.
CHEST SURGERY CLINICS OF NORTH AMERICA 2002;
12:489-505. [PMID:
12469483 DOI:
10.1016/s1052-3359(02)00020-0]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Persistent air leaks prolong chest tube duration and hospital stay after lung surgery. Air leaks also may lead to life-threatening empyemas. Preventing postoperative air leaks and BPFs is the best treatment for air-leak complications. Meticulous closure of parenchymal, pleural, and bronchial defects is the mainstay of air-leak control. The reinforcement of parenchymal suture and staple lines, pleural apposition, and well-vascularized tissue-flap coverage of bronchial suture and staple lines further reduce the incidence of prolonged air leaks and BPFs.
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