Surgical treatment for postpneumonectomy syndrome
Carlsen, Nikolaj Vestergaard Kjaergaard, Thomas Hoejsgaard, Anette Kalkat, Maninder Singh Christensen, Thomas Decker
Carlsen, Nikolaj Vestergaard
Kjaergaard, Thomas
Hoejsgaard, Anette
Kalkat, Maninder Singh
Christensen, Thomas Decker
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Publication date
2025-08-11
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Abstract
Postpneumonectomy syndrome (PPS) is a rare complication after pneumonectomy characterised by severe mediastinal shift leading to airway compression and respiratory distress. We present a case of a woman in her mid-40s who developed PPS following a right pneumonectomy for bronchial mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Surgical treatment of PPS had not previously been performed in Denmark by Danish surgeons, which is why we consulted with a British surgeon. The surgery was performed in Denmark.The procedure resulted in immediate respiratory improvement, and the patient was discharged 22 days postoperatively. Follow-up demonstrated sustained airway patency and no signs of cancer recurrence. This case highlights the feasibility and effectiveness of surgical management of PPS in centres with limited prior experience and supports mediastinal repositioning with prosthetic implants as a viable treatment option in severe cases.
Citation
Carlsen NV, Kjaergaard T, Hoejsgaard A, Kalkat MS, Christensen TD. Surgical treatment for postpneumonectomy syndrome. BMJ Case Rep. 2025 Aug 11;18(8):e266605. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2025-266605.
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