Imaging of postoperative complications following surgery for lung cancer

Abstract

The complications following surgery for lung cancer vary depending upon the comorbidities and the type of surgery. Hemorrhage, infections and pulmonary edemas are not specific to the type of resection but frequently occur following pneumonectomies. Morbidity following pneumonectomies is related to the significant changes in the contents of the intrathoracic space. Pulmonary infarction and torsion are emergency situations that develop following lobectomy. CT shows features of localized congestion and stenosis or occlusion of a vein or bronchus. Rapid identification of severe events, in particular by systematic CT is essential for appropriate management of a postoperative or delayed complication of lung cancer surgery.

Keywords: CT; Chylothorax; Fistula; Gossypiboma; Thoracic surgery.