Journal of Chest Surgery

The Korean Society for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery (대한심장혈관흉부외과학회)
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Chyle Leakage after Esophageal Cancer Surgery

  • Yang, Young Ho (Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine) ;
  • Park, Seong Yong (Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine) ;
  • Kim, Dae Joon (Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine)
  • Received : 2020.05.06
  • Accepted : 2020.05.25
  • Published : 2020.08.05
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Abstract

Surgeons recommend dissecting lymph nodes in the thorax, abdomen, and neck during surgery for esophageal cancer because of the possibility of metastasis to the lymph nodes in those areas through the lymphatic plexus of the esophageal submucosal layer. Extensive lymph node dissection is essential for accurate staging and is thought to improve survival. However, it can result in several complications, including chyle leakage, which refers to continuous lymphatic fluid leakage and can occur in the thorax, abdomen, and neck. Malnutrition, fluid imbalance, and immune compromise may result from chyle leakage, which can be potentially life-threatening if it persists. Therefore, various treatment methods, including conservative treatment, pharmacological treatment such as octreotide infusion, and interventions such as thoracic duct embolization and surgical thoracic duct ligation, have been applied. In this article, the risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment methods of chyle leakage after esophagectomy are reviewed.

Keywords

References

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