Enhancing treatment approaches for postpneumonectomy empyema: exploring the role of video-assisted thoracic surgery.

Introduction: Postpneumonectomy empyema (PPE) poses a substantial postoperative risk, even in the absence of a bronchopleural fistula, often necessitating surgical intervention for resolution. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) in managing PPE, supported by a comprehensive review of pertinent literature. Material and methods: Six studies were included in this analysis, encompassing 63 PPE cases treated with VATS. Patient ages ranged from 16 to 74 years, with prevalent bacterial strains identified within the Staphylococcus and Streptococcus genera. Results: Hospital stays extended up to 94 days, with 4 patients requiring thoracostomy for infection management. Postoperatively, 1 patient succumbed to complications. VATS holds promise as a viable therapeutic modality for definitive PPE management. Conclusions: In instances of bronchopleural fistula or persistent empyema, consideration should be given to open revision procedures. Key words: bronchopleural fistula, video-assisted thoracic surgery, post-pneumonectomy empyema, pneumonectomy complications, thoracic infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]