Modified Silicone Stent in the Treatment of Bronchopleural Fistula: Clinical Observation of 17 Cases

Abstract Objective: Bronchopleural fistula is a rare but life-threatening event with limited therapeutic options. Aim of our study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of the modified silicone stent in patients with bronchopleural fistula.Method: Between March 2016 and April 2020, we retrospectively collected 17 patients with bronchopleural fistula and who underwent bronchoscopic placement of the modified silicone sten. The Y-shaped stent was tailored and sutured manually. The initial success, clinical success, the cured rate and complications were recorded. Results: Placement of the modified silicone stent was successful in 16 patients on first attempt (initial success rate was 94.1%). The median follow-up time was 107(rang, 5-431) days. The amelioration of respiratory symptoms was reported in all patients. There were 14 patients with empyema, the daily drainage was significantly decreased in 11 patients over time, and the purulent fluid completely disappeared in six patients. The clinical success rate was 76.5%. There were seven stents was removed during follow-up, four (26.7%) removed for cured fistula, two for the severe proliferation of granulation tissue and one for the dislocation of stent. No severe adverse events of stent migration and suture dehiscence happened. There were three cases were lost to follow-up and seven patients succumbed. The cause of death included progression of primary malignance, the uncontrolled infection, myocardial infarction and left heart failure.Conclusion: The modified silicone stent may be an effective and safe option for bronchopleural fistula patients in whom the conventional therapy is inappropriate and contraindicated.