Utilization of microwave ablation as a novel approach for refractory chylothorax following esophagectomy: A case report

Abstract

Postoperative chylothorax after esophagectomy is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication.1 Without treatment, postoperative chylothorax is associated with a 5-fold increase in mortality.1 Although both conservative and surgical strategies exist, reoperation and surgical thoracic duct ligation may be necessary if conservative measures fail. Overall rates of successful resolution of chylothorax are highly variable and limited by technical difficulty.1