Broncholithiasis

Abstract

Sixteen cases with broncholithiasis are described. Two groups of complications due to the presence of a stone in the bronchus are distinguished: those due to the mechanical effect of the concrement on the mucous membrane and wall the th (hemoptysis, hemotypsis, hemorrhage, growth of granulation tissue, cicatricial stenosis of the bronchial lumen) and changes in the hypoventilated or atelectatic area of pulmonary tissue situated distal to the broncholith (pulmonite, pulmonite with the development of an abscess, the formation of retention cysts and bronchiectases). Since broncholithiasis causes many bronchopulmonary complications, lobectomy remains the most frequently performed operation.