Post-pneumonectomy and post-lobectomy syndromes: case series and review of the literature

Monaldi Arch Chest Dis. 2017 May 18;87(1):810. doi: 10.4081/monaldi.2017.810.

Abstract

The post-pneumonectomy syndrome is a rare complication consisting of rotation and herniation of the mediastinal structures, the remaining lung and the respective bronchi, into the contralateral hemithorax. This situation may produce symptomatic airway obstruction and varies in its presentation and severity. We describe one case of right and one of left pneumonectomy syndrome as well as one case of post-lobectomy syndrome. We review the literature on the pathophysiology, the clinical, radiological and bronchoscopic characteristics of this rare entity and discuss all available therapeutic alternatives.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Airway Obstruction / diagnostic imaging*
  • Airway Obstruction / therapy
  • Bronchomalacia / diagnostic imaging*
  • Bronchomalacia / physiopathology
  • Bronchomalacia / therapy
  • Bronchoscopy / methods
  • Cough / diagnosis
  • Cough / etiology
  • Dyspnea / diagnosis
  • Dyspnea / etiology
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Male
  • Noninvasive Ventilation / methods
  • Pneumonectomy / adverse effects*
  • Postoperative Complications / epidemiology
  • Silicones
  • Stents / adverse effects
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Silicones