Management of short-term complications after pneumonectomy for pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract

To explore the diagnosis and management of short-term complications after pneumonectomy for pulmonary tuberculosis. The clinical data and management of short-term complications in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis after pneumonectomy were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. From September 2000 to September 2010, 206 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis underwent pneumonectomy, of whom 26 experienced complications shortly after the surgery. Postoperative acute type II respiratory failure occurred in 5 within 14 months post-operation, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in 2 within 3 months post-operation, chest hemorrhage in 7 within 20 days post-operation, empyema in 8 within 4 years post-operation, and bronchopleural fistula in 4 cases within 50 days post-operation. Of the 7 cases with chest hemorrhage, 2 were cured and 5 dead. All the 8 cases with empyema were cured. Of the patients with bronchopleural fistula, 2 were cured, 1 failed, and 1 was dead. Pneumonectomy for pulmonary tuberculosis carries a higher risk of developing serious complications such as chest hemorrhage, acute type II respiratory failure and bronchopleural fistula. Most complications can be managed successfully if diagnosed and treated early.