Technical improvement of mechanical suture of bronchial stumps in pneumonectomy

Objective To prevent or reduce such postoperative complications of pneumonectomy as bronchopleural fistula and promote the curative effect of the surgery by improving the technique for handling the bronchial stumps. Methods In 107 patients, bronchial stapler was adopted for closure of the bronchial stump and pneumonectomy was subsequently performed on the side of the staples. A 1-0 polyester suture was used to for suture in the shape of "U" deep in the mechanical suture on the bronchial stump. The postoperative complications were observed. Results The operations were performed easily and the bronchial stumps were short and sutured firmly. No fluid retention or granuloma occurred in the stumps after the operation, nor were the complications such as intractable cough and infection of thoracic cavity observed. No bronchopleural fistula was found in these patients. Conclusion This new method is safe and effective for treatment of the bronchial stumps.