A Large Pleural Effusion following Abdominal Aortic Surgery. (9th November 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ramsaran, Vinoo K.; Seeram, Vandana K.; Cury, James; Shujaat, Adil
• Other Names: Turna Akif Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Case reports in pulmonology. Volume 2015(2015)
• Publication Date: 2015-11-09
• Subjects: Lungs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiratory organs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiratory infections -- Periodicals; Lung Diseases; Respiratory Tract Diseases; Respiratory Tract Infections; Lungs -- Diseases; Respiratory infections; Respiratory organs -- Diseases; Periodicals; Case Reports; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.2
• DOI: 10.1155/2015/254010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-6846

Abstract

Abstract : Chylous ascites and coexistent chylothorax is a rare but important complication following retroperitoneal abdominal surgery. We report a 70-year-old male who developed gradual abdominal distension, chest tightness, and dyspnea five months after having an uncomplicated aortobifemoral bypass performed. Physical examination was consistent with a large right sided effusion and ascites which were confirmed by computed tomography. Thoracentesis yielded an opaque milky fluid with analysis consistent with a chylothorax with a paracentesis revealing fluid that was similar in both appearance and biochemistry. The patient failed initial conservative management so a chest tube was placed followed by chemical pleurodesis. We review the literature of the pathophysiology and treatment approach to such a pleural effusion.