Thoracoscopic management of thoracic duct injury.

Abstract

Thoracotomy has long been the conventional surgical approach in dealing with chylothorax due to thoracic duct injury which has been refractory to conservative treatment. The development of thoracoscopic access provides an alternative means of dealing with thoracic duct injuries thereby reducing the morbidity from thoracotomy and prolonged chylous leak. It will encourage earlier intervention in thoracic duct injury.