Left-sided neck dissection and chylothorax: a rare complication and its management

Abstract

AbstractObjective:We present a case of bilateral chylothorax, a rare but life-threatening complication, which developed following a left-sided neck dissection.Method:Case report and literature review.Results:Chylous leakage fistula is a known complication following neck dissection and occurs in 1 to 2 per cent of patients. After left-sided neck dissection, chylothorax is uncommon and bilateral chylothorax is even rarer. Chylothorax is encountered following certain thoracic procedures, especially superior mediastinal dissection for thyroid cancer treatment. We discuss in detail the successful management of a complicated case.Conclusion:We discuss various management options for this condition, and we summarise its successful management within our department.