Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for the management of contralateral iatrogenic bronchus perforation during lower bilobectomy

Abstract

Tracheobronchial rupture by a double-lumen endobronchial tube is a rare but life-threatening complication. We report a case of bronchial rupture during contralateral bilobectomy. Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support was instituted via the right femoral vein and the internal jugular vein with the patient in the left lateral decubitus position. Sleeve resection of the ruptured bronchus was performed. The patient was successfully discharged home. Rapid institution of venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is helpful to manage this intraoperative complication.