Post-pneumonectomy empyema: current management strategies

Abstract

Post-pneumonectomy empyema is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening complication. It has a strong association with bronchopleural fistula, which acts as a continued source of infection into the thoracic cavity. Numerous risk factors have been identified and strategies formulated to minimize its occurrence. When bronchopleural fistula occurs, its treatment depends on several factors including extent of dehiscence, degree of pleural contamination and general condition of the patient. Early diagnosis and assessment with appropriate investigations, and aggressive therapeutic strategies are paramount in controlling sepsis, facilitating closure of fistula, and sterilization of the closed pleural space. Recent success with repeat debridement has made routine space obliteration not mandatory in management. The development of minimal-access interventions including video-assisted thoracic surgery, endoscopic application of tissue glue and stenting may be additional tools to complement conventional surgery in post-pneumonectomy empyema management.