Feasibility and safety of direct percutaneous embolization of lymphopseudoaneurysm for postoperative lymphatic leakage

Abstract

The treatment strategy for refractory postoperative lymphatic leakage is controversial. While the utility of direct percutaneous embolization of lymphopseudoaneurysm has been investigated, only a few reports on this topic exist. The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical and clinical feasibility and safety of direct percutaneous embolization of lymphopseudoaneurysm for refractory postoperative lymphatic leakage. This case series included six consecutive patients who underwent direct percutaneous embolization of lymphopseudoaneurysm for refractory postoperative lymphatic leakage. Technical success (successful percutaneous approach and injection of NBCA glue to the lymphopseudoaneurysm), clinical success (unnecessity of percutaneous drainage tube of the lymphatic leakage), treatment duration (the duration from the treatment to the achievement of clinical success) and procedure-related complications were mainly evaluated. Direct percutaneous embolization of the lymphopseudoaneurysm using NBCA glue was successfully performed in all cases. Clinical success was achieved in five of the six cases (83%). The mean treatment period was 9 days for the cases with clinical success. No major complications occurred postoperatively. In conclusion, direct percutaneous embolization of lymphopseudoaneurysm may become a feasible and safe treatment option for cases of refractory postoperative lymphatic leakage.