Ultrasound-guided lymphangiography and interventional embolization of chylous leaks following esophagectomy

Abstract

Postoperative chylothorax is a serious complication after transthoracic esophagectomy, and is associated with major morbidity due to dehydration and malnutrition. For patients with high-output fistula, re-thoracotomy with ligation of the thoracic duct is the treatment of choice. Radiologic interventional management is an innovative procedure that has the potential to replace surgery in the treatment algorithm.

Keywords

• chylothorax
• esophagectomy
• intranodal lymphangiography
• lipiodol
• percutaneous embolization