Lymphangiography for Thoracic Duct Interventions

Abstract

Lymph leaks resulting in chylous pleural effusions can be life-threatening. Minimally invasive thoracic duct embolization and disruption have been gaining acceptance as first-line treatment for these leaks. This review discusses the techniques for both pedal and intranodal lymphangiography in detail. It also discusses the use of lymphangiography as a means of targeting a retroperitoneal lymphatic to facilitate thoracic duct interventions for chyle leaks. Finally, outcomes and adverse events pertaining to these thoracic duct interventions are discussed.

Keywords: Chyle leak; Lymphatic embolization; Thoracic duct.