Closure of Bronchial Defects Using Glutaraldehyde-Treated Pericardium

Abstract

From September 1992 to December 2000, closure of bronchial defects in 9 patients was achieved with a glutaraldehyde-treated autologous free pericardial patch. Four patients underwent an upper lobectomy and 2 had a lower lobectomy. Two patients had traumatic disruption of the main bronchus, and 1 had disruption of the right bronchus intermedius. Airtight closure of the bronchial defect was accomplished in all cases, and the remaining lung expanded easily. There was no suture line breakdown, bronchial stenosis, or obstruction during follow-up ranging from 3 to 96 months. Pericardial patch bronchoplasty is a technically simpler and safe alternative to complex bronchoplasty procedures.