Prevention and Management of Chylothorax Post Esophagectomy in Carcinoma Oesophagus

Chylothorax is collection of chyle in the pleural cavity, being uncommon albiet one of the most debilitating and potentially life threatening, with a reported incidence of 0.4–4%. The diagnosis is confirmed by demonstrating the presence of chylomicrons. Conservative treatment is tried first and if it fails, the next option to consider is surgery, in the form of thoracic duct ligation, pleurodesis, or placement of a pleuroperitoneal shunt. Other alternatives available today are interventional radiological procedures such as percutaneous thoracic duct embolization.