Thoracic duct embolization for the management of chylothoraces

G Nadolski, M Itkin - Current opinion in pulmonary medicine, 2013 - journals.lww.com
G Nadolski, M Itkin
Current opinion in pulmonary medicine, 2013journals.lww.com
Recent advances in the lymphangiography techniques and the accumulation of experience
in treating chylous effusions have significantly broadened the adoption of TDE to treat
chylothorax. TDE for traumatic chylothorax has been demonstrated to be less morbid and
more effective than surgical and conservative treatment. In cases of nontraumatic
chylothorax, the patient has to be evaluated by MRI and lymphangiography to exclude
causes of chylothorax which cannot be managed by interruption of the thoracic duct (eg …
Summary
Recent advances in the lymphangiography techniques and the accumulation of experience in treating chylous effusions have significantly broadened the adoption of TDE to treat chylothorax. TDE for traumatic chylothorax has been demonstrated to be less morbid and more effective than surgical and conservative treatment. In cases of nontraumatic chylothorax, the patient has to be evaluated by MRI and lymphangiography to exclude causes of chylothorax which cannot be managed by interruption of the thoracic duct (eg lymphatic malformations or chylous ascites). Future advancements in noninvasive imaging of the thoracic duct and imaging guidance during TDE will continue to refine the percutaneous management of chylous effusions.
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins