A rare complication in breast cancer surgery: chylous fistula and its treatment

Acta Chir Belg. 2007 Jun;107(3):317-9. doi: 10.1080/00015458.2007.11680064.

Abstract

Chylous fistula is a complication related to thoracic duct injury, appearing in upper abdominal, thoracic and neck surgery. Occurrence of chylous fistula is very rare after modified radical mastectomy. We encountered a chylous fistula case after breast cancer surgery and successfully treated it conservatively. It is important that all surgeons dealing with breast surgery should be aware that, altough rarely, a chylous fistula can develop after axillary dissection. Experience related to the occurrence of this complication and its management when it occurs is quite restricted.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology
  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Carcinoma / pathology
  • Carcinoma / surgery*
  • Chyle*
  • Female
  • Fistula / etiology*
  • Fistula / therapy
  • Humans
  • Lymph Node Excision
  • Lymphatic Diseases / etiology*
  • Lymphatic Diseases / therapy
  • Mastectomy, Modified Radical*
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Parenteral Nutrition, Total
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology*
  • Postoperative Complications / therapy
  • Thoracic Duct / injuries*