Intrathoracic fibrin sealant application using computed tomography fluoroscopy

Persistent intrathoracic airspace and bronchopleural fistula remain a problem following lung resection or in patients with severe bullous disease experiencing a spontaneous pneumothorax. Although fibrin sealant has been used successfully to manage such air-leaks, precise nonoperative intrathoracic application is difficult. This report describes a novel technique using computed tomography fluoroscopy for catheter-directed FS application through a previously placed thoracostomy tube. Continuous computed tomography-fluoroscopy images allowed real-time catheter manipulation for precise placement of fibrin sealant. (Ann Thorac Surg 2000;70:301-2) (C) 2000 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.