Removal of hematoma due to massive hemoptysis after transbronchial biopsy: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Massive hemoptysis is a life-threatening complication after transbronchial biopsy (TBB). Reports on massive hemoptysis occurring several days after TBB are scarce. Case presentation A 62-year-old man presented with massive hemoptysis and was admitted to hospital as an emergency on the eighth day after TBB. On the 12th day after TBB, computed tomography showed complete atelectasis of the right middle and lower lobes. The patient underwent emergent right upper lobectomy. The right upper lobe bronchus was separated with a scalpel, the hematoma was pulled out with forceps, and the bronchus subsequently sutured shut. The patient was discharged from the hospital uneventfully. Conclusions We experienced a case of massive hemoptysis on the eighth day after TBB, which required emergency surgery due to persistent bleeding into the airway and airway obstruction during follow-up. Postoperative pneumonia and atelectasis could be prevented by manual removal of the residual hematoma.

Keywords

• Transbronchial biopsy
• Hemoptysis
• Sutured shut