Postsplenectomy left lower lobe bronchiectasis

Abstract

Background

Bronchiectasis has decreased significantly. I describe a new underestimated clinicopathological entity of postsplenectomy left lower lobe bronchiectasis.

Methods

This is a retrospective study on 24 patients who had a left lower lobectomy for left lower lobe bronchiectasis after splenectomy. The mean age was 34.6 years (range 18 to 63 years); there were 19 men and 5 women. The available data included history, radiological investigations (ultrasonography and computed tomography of the chest and abdomen), operative data, postoperative complications, and follow-up data.

Results

All patients had a history of splenectomy and 10 had undergone subphrenic collection drainage either percutaneously or through open drainage a few years prior to the left lower lobectomy. Fourteen patients were lost to follow-up. The mean follow-up in 10 patients was 5.8 years (range 2 to 13 years).

Conclusions

Postsplenectomy left lower lobe bronchiectasis is an underestimated clinicopathological entity of bronchiectasis. It can be managed by a left lower lobectomy, with acceptable results.