Ultrasound-guided lymphangiography and interventional embolization of chylous leaks following esophagectomy

OBJECTIVES: Postoperative chylothorax is a serious complication after transthoracic esophagectomy, and is associated with major morbidity due to dehydration and malnutrition. For patients with high-output fistula, re-thoracotomy with ligation of the thoracic duct is the treatment of choice. Radiologic interventional management is an innovative procedure that has the potential to replace surgery in the treatment algorithm. METHODS: Four patients with high-output chylous leaks following esophagectomy are presented. Ultrasound-guided lymphangiography with embolization of the thoracic duct and/or disruption of the cisterna chyli was performed to occlude the leakage site. Radiologic interventions and procedure-related outcomes are described in detail. RESULTS: In all four patients, ultrasound-guided lymphangiography of the groin with injection of Lipiodol was able to detect and visualize the leakage site in the lower mediastinum. In three patients, the leak could be successfully occluded by Lipiodol embolization. In one patient, embolization failed and the disruption technique was successfully performed. No procedure-related complications were observed. CONCLUSIONS: In case of a postoperative chylothorax, radiologic intervention is feasible and safe. The procedure is indicated for high-output chylous fistulas after esophagectomy, and should be applied early after the diagnosis of this postoperative complication.