Fatal broncho-pulmonary artery fistula after lobectomy for lung cancer(†)

A broncho-pulmonary artery fistula is one of the most fatal complications of lung cancer surgery. This article discusses the case of a patient who died of massive hemoptysis after a left upper lobectomy. There were no previous signs of broncho-pleural fistula except for an obstinate dry cough and slightly elevated serum C-reactive protein levels after surgery. An autopsy revealed that a fistula had formed between the bronchial stump and the pulmonary artery, leading to prolonged inflammation and ultimately a broncho-pulmonary artery fistula. The left lobectomy and right upper sleeve resection are the procedures most affected by this complication, according to the reviewed literature. The median period from the surgery to the events is 4 weeks. Abrupt onset of recurrent hemoptysis in that period is the most critical sign that should not be ignored.