Protection and revascularization of bronchial anastomoses by the intercostal pedicle flap.

We used an improved method for preparation of the intercostal pedicle flap for encircling bronchial anastomoses, and we studied its vascular supply after the operation. The flap was used in 56 patients undergoing various types of sleeve resection and in three patients undergoing single lung transplantation. The technique is simple, fast, and causes neither extra surgical trauma nor complications.

Chylothorax: report of a case complicating orthotopic heart transplantation.

We describe a case of a chylothorax that occurred in a 62-year-old man after orthotopic heart transplantation. Injury to collateral lymphatics in the anterior mediastinal or thymic areas was the probable cause of the chylous fistula. Excessive chyle drainage causes loss of large amounts of fat, protein, electrolytes, and lymphocytes.

Safety and efficacy of internal mammary artery grafts for left main coronary artery disease. A preliminary report.

Questions regarding the relative safety and efficacy of internal mammary artery (IMA) grafts versus saphenous vein grafts (SVG) in patients with left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD) have not been specifically addressed in the literature. To elucidate this point, we analyzed 196 patients with LMCAD who underwent myocardial revascularization between January 1975 and December 1981, 98 by IMA and SVG and 98 by SVG, IMA was used most often to bypass the left anterior descending (LAD). Chi Square and "t" tests were performed on all demographic, cardiac and operative data comparing IMA to SVG.