Non-intubated complete thoracoscopic bronchial sleeve resection for central lung cancer.

Abstract

Bronchial sleeve resection has emerged as an effective thoracoscopic approach for central lung cancer with reduced operation mortality rates, optimal lung function and long-term survival. Endobronchial intubation is a commonly used method of anesthesia for such thoracoscopic procedures, but is associated with increased intubation-related and lung complications. Non-intubated epidural anesthesia represents an alternative approach which may avoid such difficulties, particularly in complicated sleeve resection situations. Here we have described a case of complete endoscopic bronchial sleeve resection of right lower lung cancer under non-intubated epidural anesthesia.