A case report of video-assisted flap bronchoplasty for central type typical carcinoid

Background: The use of complete video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (c-VATS) for primary bronchial tumors has increased due to its less invasive nature and cosmetic advantages. However, no studies have reported about flap bronchoplasty using c-VATS due to its technicality. Case Description: A woman in her 20s presented with dyspnea and chest tightness. Computed tomography (CT) showed a 15x18-mm-sized mass located from the left second carina to the lower lobe bronchus root. Flap bronchoplasty using c-VATS was performed. The tumor developed from the second carina near the anterior wall of the left main bronchial cartilage. The upper lobe bronchial root was resected while ensuring surgical margin. The B6 bronchial wall was trimmed to create a flap, and bronchoplasty was performed to fill the defect. After bronchoplasty, the fifth intercostal muscle valve was wrapped around the flap. Postoperative course was uneventful, and bronchoscopy revealed no stenosis. There has been no adverse events and recurrence for 2 years after surgery. Conclusions: Flap bronchoplasty from the resected area allowed preservation of the basal area, and was a useful technique in terms of function preservation. Since the patient in this case was a young female, a full thoracoscopic surgery was completed successfully in consideration of invasion and appearance.