Chemical Pleurodesis Using a Viscum album Extract in an Infant with Postoperative Chylothorax: A Case Report

Abstract

Chylothorax after thoracic surgery is a rare complication, and treatment for refractory chylothorax is challenging. We report a case of chylothorax after cardiothoracic surgery in an infant after failure of conservative management and thoracic duct ligation. The patient underwent chemical pleurodesis with a Viscum album extract. The treatment was successful and chylothorax did not recur.

Keywords

• chylothorax
• pleurodesis
• viscum album
• congenital heart disease
• case report