Bronchus perforation by EZ-blockertm endobronchial blocker during esophageal resection after neoadjuvant chemoradiation - A case report

Abstract

Background: Double-lumen tubes (DLT) and endobronchial blockers (EB) are used for one-lung ventilation in thoracic surgery. More complications are seen when using DLT when compared to EB, while major complications are rarely seen. Case: This case report describes a perforation of the right mainstem bronchus by an EZ-Blocker EB in a patient undergoing a minimally invasive esophagectomy after neoadjuvant chemoradiation. Conclusions: We advise to insert an EZ-BlockerTM EB with caution and only under direct bronchoscopic visualization, especially in previous irradiated patients.