Rupture of contralateral mainstem bronchus during uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopy surgery lobectomy and 3 successful cases of repair.

BACKGROUND

Our goal was to discuss the treatment for rupture of contralateral mainstem bronchus during uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopy surgery (uniportal VATS) lobectomy.

CASE PRESENTATION: We analyzed clinical data of 3 cases of rupture of contralateral mainstem bronchus during uniportal VATS. Surgical repair was performed immediately under an uniportal VATS during operation, as a result, 3 cases of bronchial rupture all were repaired successfully, and we continued to complete lobectomy and systemic lymph node dissection. Reexamination was performed after 1 week, and no fistula was found in trachea and bronchi through a fiberoptic bronchoscopy. The time range for indwelling the chest tube is 6-9 days, and the hospital stay is 8-10 days. No abnormality was observed on chest radiography when the 3 patients returned to the hospital 1 month after the operation for the second reexamination.

CONCLUSIONS

Instant surgical repair is recommended to the treatment of bronchial rupture in thoracic surgery. It is safe and feasible to repair bronchial tear with uniportal VATS.