Staple metalloptysis after lung resection for mycetoma: a case report and a review of the literature.

The expectoration of metal fragments (metalloptysis) is a rare complication after thoracic surgery. It usually occurs in patients with severe emphysema. We present a case of metalloptysis of surgical staples that is unique in several aspects: it occurred longer after surgery than any previously reported case, it occurred after lobar resection surgery, and it most likely developed as a result of chronic necrotizing aspergillosis. Although metalloptysis usually requires no therapy, it may indicate an active infectious process that requires appropriate therapy.