A novel, rapid, and effective technique for whole lung lavage in patients with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis and silicosis: retrospective study.

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) presents a significant challenge due to its progressive and potentially fatal nature. Whole lung lavage (WLL) is a key treatment for primary PAP with respiratory failure. Despite its efficacy, the lack of standardised protocols has led to diverse practice techniques across different institutions. Our study introduces a novel approach, employing a cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) system for infusing lavage fluid, a method not previously utilised. This paper will share our pioneering experience with this technique at a tertiary referral centre, focusing on its implementation and safety profile.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients aged ≥ 18 who underwent WLL for PAP or silicosis. Pre-lavage preparations included chest X-rays and pulmonary function tests (PFT). Preprocedural empiric antibiotics were administered. During lavage, warm saline was infused using a CPB, with cycles of normal saline infusion and degassing until fluid clarity was reached. Positioning techniques facilitated saline drainage. The procedure concluded with intravenous furosemide administration.

RESULTS

Fifty-two WLLs were identified between 2010 and 2024; complete data was available for 33 procedures. Of these, 91% were due to PAP, and 9% to silicosis. Almost half of the patients did not require additional WLL, while 43% needed sequential contralateral WLL. Median operative and mechanical ventilation times were 65 [58.5, 67.5] and 118 [97, 195] minutes, respectively. The median length of hospital stay was two days [2, 3]. Although not statistically significant, O2 saturation and a 6-minute walk distance increase were observed after the WLL.

CONCLUSION

This study outlines our novel approach to WLL, which incorporates rapid saline infusion via a CPB system. Our findings indicate reduced procedure time while maintaining safety and efficacy for treating PAP and silicosis. Despite promising results, the retrospective design and small sample size limit generalizability. Further high-quality studies are warranted to validate and refine this technique.