Stapling and Suturing of Blebs and Bullae without Excision in Thoracoscopic Surgery / 대한흉부외과학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Prolonged air leak is a common complication after thoracoscopic bullectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A technique is described to minimize postoperative air leak in thoracoscopic surgery for the treatment of recurrent or persistent spontaneous pneumothorax. RESULTS: A 3.5cm utility incision is made in the anterior axillary line at the level of the third intercostal space, and blebs and bullae are stapled and sutured without excision, using standard surgical instruments and stapler. CONCLUSIONS: This technique may be useful to reduce prolonged air leak after removal of the bleb and bullous lesion, and may minimize the delayed recurrence of ipsilateral pneumothorax.