Use of the greater omentum for treatment and prophylaxis of anastomotic and stump dehiscence in major airway surgery.

In 6 patients suffering from anastomotic dehiscence following bronchoplastic procedures of the central airways or from acute bronchial stump fistula following pneumonectomy, the therapeutic efficiency of omentopexy in the management of the fistula was investigated. In 5 other patients with an increased risk of anastomotic leakage after sleeve pneumonectomy or pneumonectomy with carinal resection the omentum was effectfully used to prevent such complication. 4 out of 5 evaluable patients had successful treatment of the anastomosis and stump fistula. Complications arising from the additional laparotomy were not observed.