Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for intralobar pulmonary sequestration

Objectives Pulmonary sequestration is a rare developmental abnormality of the lower respiratory system. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of wedge resection compared with lobectomy for the treatment of intralobar pulmonary sequestration. Methods Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) for intralobar pulmonary sequestration was performed in 26 patients in our institute between December 2006 and January 2015. Data regarding patient demographics, major complaints, diagnostic procedures, operative treatment, and treatment outcome were retrospectively analyzed. Results VATS was performed successfully in all patients. Wedge resection was performed in 7 patients and lobectomy in 19 patients. Conversion to thoracotomy was not required in any case. Statistical analysis revealed that operation duration and blood loss with wedge resection were significantly less than with lobectomy (p = 0.032 and 0.014, respectively). No significant differences were found in the mean drainage time, postoperative length of hospital stay, or complications. During our long-term follow-up, no patients had chronic cough, bloody sputum, or pneumonia. Conclusion VATS for intralobar pulmonary sequestration is feasible and safe. Lobectomy is the generally accepted operative method. However, wedge resection is a feasible alternative to lobectomy in select cases.