Summary

Abstract

Bronchopleural, esophageal, and gastrointestinal fistulae constitute one of the most dreaded forms of complication following resections in general and thoracic surgery. The development of these insufficiencies is caused by a number of factors. Local (infection, malignancy, malnutrition) and systemic (anemia, hypoproteinemia) factors as well as inadequate surgical techniques all contribute to its incidence. Although the incidence of fistulae has decreased since the introduction of mechanical staplers in surgery, they still pose a significant problem, and their treatment often remains unsatisfactory. Operative approaches entail a high risk, and often the rapid deterioration of the patient’s general condition due to infection makes him a poor candidate for operation.