Bronchopleural Fistula Management With an Amplatzer Duct Occluder: A Comprehensive Case Report and Literature Review

Cureus. 2023 Nov 26;15(11):e49431. doi: 10.7759/cureus.49431. eCollection 2023 Nov.

Abstract

Bronchial stump insufficiency (BSI), also reported as bronchopleural fistula, following pneumonectomy is a rare but potentially devastating complication that can result in substantial morbidity and mortality. Despite advances in thoracic surgical techniques and perioperative care, bronchial stump dehiscence remains a challenging clinical scenario, especially when associated with severe infections and compromised patient conditions. Traditional surgical re-intervention to address this complication may carry significant risks and might be contraindicated in certain patients. As a result, innovative interventions are necessary to address these challenging cases effectively. In this report, we present an interventional endoscopic technique using an Amplatzer Duct occluder for the successful management of BSI in a 55-year-old male patient with a complex medical history.

Keywords: amplatzer occluder; bronchial stump insufficiency; bronchopleural fistula; endoscopic treatment; postpneumonectomy empyema.

Publication types

  • Case Reports