Case Reports in Gastrointestinal Medicine (Jan 2024)

Cervical Chylous Leakage Combined With Chylothorax: A Case Report of a Rare Complication Postretroperitoneal Surgery and Its Management

  • Yao Zhou,
  • Mingde Ding,
  • Qiang Shi,
  • Jing Wang,
  • Guanghai Liu,
  • Qianqian Zhang

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/8820322
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 2024

Abstract

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Chylous leakage is an uncommon and serious clinical condition, especially occurring after retroperitoneal operations. Here, we report a case of cervical chylous leakage combined with chylothorax in a 57-year-old woman postretroperitoneal surgery, and our conservative approach led to resolution/clinical improvement. The causes of this rare complication are discussed. We considered that the venous thrombosis, the increased intra-abdominal pressure, or the patient positioning during the surgery may lead to the chylous particles leakage and chylothorax. Because of its rarity, we hope this case report will improve clinicians’ understanding of cervical chylous leakage combined with chylothorax and provide suitable treatment options for future clinical reference.