Esophageal Stent in Postpneumonectomy Esophagopleural Fistula / 대한흉부외과학회지

ABSTRACT

A case of esophagopleural fistula after pleuropneumonectomy is reported. A 59 years old male underwent right pleuropneumonectomy due to tuberculous empyema. The postoperative small esophagopleural fistula was confirmed by esophagogram and was initially managed by a conservative treatment. There was a persistent fistula on follow up esophagogram, therefore we planned the next treatment modality for obstruction of the fistula. For poor general conditions and arrhythmia, an esophageal stent was applied as a non-surgical method. At first, a covered-form stent was inserted, but it migrated to the stomach after 3 months. By using an uncovered-form stent, a complete obstruction of the esophagopleural fistula was achieved.