Bronchus perforation by EZ-Blocker endobronchial blocker during esophageal resection after neoadjuvant chemoradiation -a case report-

Abstract

Background Double-lumen tubes (DLT) and endobronchial blockers (EB) are used for one-lung ventilation in thoracic surgery. More complications are seen when using DLT when compared to EB, while major complications are rarely seen. Case This case report describes a perforation of the right mainstem bronchus by an EZ-Blocker EB in a patient undergoing a minimally invasive esophagectomy after neoadjuvant chemoradiation. Conclusions We advise to insert an EZ-BlockerTM EB with caution and only under direct bronchoscopic visualization, especially in previous irradiated patients.

Keywords

• bronchi
• esophageal neoplasms
• intubation
• neoadjuvant therapy
• thoracic surgery
• video-assisted surgery