High-frequency jet ventilation in managing airway during whole-lung lavage under general anesthesia: A case report

Abstract

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare disorder characterized by the accumulation of surfactant-derived lipoproteins within alveoli and impaired macrophage function, leading to progressive dyspnea, hypoxemic respiratory failure, secondary infections, and pulmonary fibrosis. We report a case of a 43-year-old male with a history of occupational exposure to airborne dust from lathe work, presenting with exertional dyspnea. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) revealed bilateral patchy ground-glass opacities with interlobular septal thickening. Histopathological analysis of lung biopsy specimens showed eosinophilic amorphous material in alveolar spaces, which exhibited positive periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining with diastase resistance, confirming PAP. The patient underwent whole-lung lavage (WLL) of the right lung under general anesthesia. Severe baseline hypoxemia complicated intraoperative oxygen saturation maintenance. The intermittent use of high-frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) in the operative lung markedly improved oxygenation (SpO₂ increased from 85 % to 96 %) while ensuring effective saline distribution into distal alveoli. The procedure was completed without complications, highlighting the efficacy and safety of HFJV in managing complex airway conditions during WLL for PAP.