Lymphovenous anastomosis for the treatment of persistent congenital chylothorax in a low-birth-weight infant: A case report

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Rationale: Chylothorax remains a poorly understood phenomenon, and no optimal treatment or guidelines have been established. This is the first report of treating congenital chylothorax and lymphedema in a low-birth-weight infant by lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA).

Patient concerns: We report a case of successful LVA for persistent congenital chylothorax and lymphedema resistant to other conservative therapies.

Diagnosis: The diagnosis of chylothorax was confirmed by the predominance of lymphocytes in the pleural fluid draining from the chest tube. In addition, the infant developed oliguria and generalized lymphedema.

Interventions: LVA under local anesthesia combined with light sedation was performed at his medial thighs and left upper arm.

Outcomes: Although his subcutaneous edema markedly improved, the decrease in chest tube drainage was gradual. No additional treatment was required.

Lessons: LVA is of considerable value as a surgical treatment option in the setting of persistent congenital chylothorax and lymphedema, because LVA is a less invasive procedure.