RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Endobronchial Valve Placement as Destination Therapy for Recurrent Pneumothorax in the Setting of Advanced Malignancy
JF Respiratory Care
FD American Association for Respiratory Care
SP e46
OP e48
DO 10.4187/respcare.03540
VO 60
IS 3
A1 Christopher R Gilbert
A1 Jennifer W Toth
A1 Umar Osman
A1 Michael F Reed
YR 2015
UL http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/60/3/e46.abstract
AB The development of a persistent air leak after pneumothorax can be encountered in patients with underlying structural lung disease. In those with advanced malignancy or other comorbidities, the ability to tolerate general anesthesia and thoracoscopic procedures may limit definitive management. We describe the case of a 68-y-old male with refractory acute myelogenous leukemia presenting with recurrent secondary spontaneous pneumothorax and persistent air leak related to an underlying fungal pneumonia. Endobronchial valve placement allowed for timely chest tube removal and discharge from the hospital, as well as avoidance of a thoracoscopic procedure and pleurodesis.