A feasibility study of percutaneous thoracic duct embolization with lower limb intermittent pneumatic compression devices

Abstract

To demonstrate intra-nodal thoracic duct embolization (TDE) to treat chyle leaks following thoracic surgery. To show the feasibility of applying lower limb intermittent pneumatic compression devices during TDE. METHODS:Between December 2017 and October 2020, 12 consecutive TDE for post-operative chyle leaks were performed in 11 patients using intra-nodal lymphangiogram (IL) with an intermittent pneumatic compressive device applied to the lower limb. The times, technical/clinical success and complications were retrospectively evaluated.Results: IL was successful in imaging the thoracic duct in all procedures (100%) and TDE had an intention to treat success rate of 92% (11/12). There were no related complications during a mean follow-up of 27 days. The time from commencement of lymphangiogram until of the thoracic duct was mean of 21.6 minutes and mean overall procedure time was 87.3 minutes.