Thoracoplasty for the Management of Postpneumonectomy Empyema

Abstract

Persistent postpneumonectomy empyema space is a difficult problem. Various operative procedures are described for its management. These include space sterilization procedures e.g. Clagett procedure, space filling with muscle flaps and space collapse procedures such as thoracoplasty. Andrew's thoracoplasty, originally used for cavitary pulmonary tuberculosis, is a valuable operative procedure in the management of persistent postpneumonectomy empyema space. We present a case in which a diagnostic radiological aspiration five years postpneumonectomy resulted in empyema in the postpneumonectomy space. Management of the patient involved involved a combination of space reduction and space filling with muscle flaps. This case highlights the risks of interventions in the post pneumonectomy space and the value of time-honored thoracoplasty.