Laparoscopic Gastropleural Fistula Repair: A Minimally Invasive Solution for a Complex Problem

J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A. 2017 Apr;27(4):416-419. doi: 10.1089/lap.2016.0569. Epub 2017 Jan 12.

Abstract

Introduction: Gastropleural fistula (GPF) is a complex pathology that can present as a result of surgery, trauma, peptic ulcer disease, malignancies, radiation, or chemotherapy. Management typically includes endoscopic or surgical intervention along with intraabdominal or intrathoracic drainage of pre-existing infection. Traditionally, surgical approaches have been through exploratory laparotomy or thoracotomy, subjecting already ill patients to additional morbidity.

Case report: We describe and demonstrate a laparoscopic minimally invasive approach to the management of a GPF with a wedge resection of the stomach, along with a review of the current literature regarding GPF treatment.

Conclusion: GPF repair can be performed through laparoscopy and may lead to improved patient outcomes and faster recovery.

Keywords: Nissen; fistula; fundoplication; gastropleural; laparoscopic; thoracoscopic.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Drainage
  • Female
  • Fundoplication
  • Gastric Fistula / complications
  • Gastric Fistula / diagnostic imaging
  • Gastric Fistula / surgery*
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / surgery
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy / methods*
  • Middle Aged
  • Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures
  • Pleural Diseases / complications
  • Pleural Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Pleural Diseases / surgery*
  • Radiography, Thoracic
  • Sepsis / etiology
  • Stomach / surgery
  • Thoracic Surgery, Video-Assisted
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed