Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Bullectomy for Recurrent Spontaneous Pneumothorax
A First Experience Case Report in a Private Hospital
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.4314/ajtmbr.v8i1.12Keywords:
Pneumothorax, Uniportal-VATS, Bullectomy, Lung bullae, Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic SurgeryAbstract
Introduction: Spontaneous pneumothorax has several causes; one important cause is lung bullae, which typically occur at the apices of the lungs and can rupture, causing pneumothorax. Resection of these bullae is indicated to prevent recurrence.
Case Report: A 25-year-old man presented with recurrent breathlessness and cough. Clinical and radiological evaluation revealed a left pneumothorax, for which a chest tube was inserted. A chest CT scan revealed bilateral apical lung bullae. He experienced a recurrence two weeks later, requiring repeat tube thoracostomy and surgical intervention. Surgery was performed using a uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) approach — a relatively novel technique in the institution. The patient was discharged four days postoperatively.
Discussion: The clinical presentation of ruptured bullae causing pneumothorax is typical, as the patient was a young male with sudden onset of symptoms. Uniportal VATS offered advantages over open thoracotomy, including reduced pain, improved cosmetic outcomes, and early discharge.
Conclusion: Spontaneous pneumothorax resulting from lung bullae can be safely managed surgically using the uniportal VATS approach in resource-limited settings.
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