Objective: To review the experience and assess the value of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in the treatment of locally advanced lung cancer involving the left atrium.
Methods: From Jan. 1999 to Dec. 2002, lobectomy or pneumonectomy combined with partial resection of the left atrium were carried out in 52 such patients, which included 13 with assistance of CPB and 39 without.
Results: There was one postoperative death in each of the CPB and non-CPB groups due to brbonchopleural fistula and pulmonary infection. Six patients in CPB and 14 in non-CPB groups developed postoperative cardiac complication including arrhythmia, pneumonia and heart failure. The 1-, 3-year survival rate of CPB and non-CPB groups was 69.3%, 66.7% and 38.5%, 38.5%, respectively.
Conclusion: Combined resection of locally advanced lung cancer with partially involved left atrium through cardiopulmonary bypass was safe and effective, and may not increase the postoperative complication and risk.