Left lower lobe torsion following upper lobectomy-prompt recognition and treatment improve survival.

Abstract

Lobar torsion is a rare but life-threatening complication after lung resection. We report a case of left lower lobe torsion in 57-year-old women after upper lobectomy for underlying lung cancer. Definitive diagnosis of lung torsion was made at exploratory thoracotomy following abnormal chest radiography and bronchoscopy on the first post-operative day. An emergency completion pneumonectomy was performed and left lower lobe was resected. The post-operative course was uncomplicated and patient was discharged home on the seventh post-operative day. Early recognition and prompt treatment of lobar torsion is essential for preventing potentially catastrophic complications including fatal gangrene of the pulmonary lobe.