Very unusual case of post-traumatic chylothorax.

Benato, Cristiano; Magnanelli, Giovanni; Terzi, Alberto; Scanagatta, Paolo; Bonadiman, Cinzia; Calabrò, Francesco · Ann Thorac Surg · 2006

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

Chylothorax is a rare disease caused by both traumatic and nontraumatic events. Chylothorax can cause cardiopulmonary abnormalities and significant nutritional, metabolic, and immunologic consequences. We present an exceptional case of chylothorax due to penetrating chest trauma. The diagnosis was made by thoracentesis. Conservative management with nothing by mouth and total parenteral nutrition failed; therefore the patient needed surgical closure of the duct leak.

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