A Case of Percutaneous Thoracic Duct Embolization for Chylothorax after Total Arch Replacement

Abstract

The patient was 70-year-old man. Distal aortic arch aneurysm of the maximum diameter of 55 mm was pointed out by Computed tomography. He underwent total arch replacement with median sternotomy. The next day, white cloudy fluid was flowing out from his left thoracic drain, and the amount increased and chylothorax was diagnosis. We selected conservative therspy with fasting and octoleotide subcutaneous injection. After 19 days chylothorax did not improve. We performed percutaneous thoracic duct embolization which is minimam invasive therapy. After embolization, he could start the meal, and the chest drain was extubated. He was discharged in good condition 49 days after first operation.