Algorithm for the Bronchoscopic Diagnosis of Alveolar-Pleural Fistula

Abstract

Alveolar-pleural fistulas (APF) are a clinical entity that represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

Objective

The objective of this work is to design a diagnostic algorithm for the anatomical detection of APF in patients who are not candidates for surgical treatment.

Method

Prospective non-randomized study of 47 patients. Diagnostic procedures were performed: (a) prior to bronchoscopy: computed axial tomography (CT) and implantation of electronic pleural drainage system (EPD) and (b) endoscopic: endobronchial occlusion (EO) by balloon, selective endobronchial oxygen insufflation (OI) (2 l) and selective bronchography (BS) (instillation of iodinated radiological contrast using continuous fluoroscopy).

Results

The sample was predominantly male (81%). The diagnostic methods revealed: (a) Determination of the anatomical location of APF by CT in 15/46 patients (31.9% of sample), and variations in the pattern (intermittent or continuous air leak) and quantification after drug administration sedatives using EPD, (b) endoscopic: anatomical determination of APF was achieved in 57.1, 81 and 63.4% respectively using EO, OI and BS. The combination of the diagnostic tests allowed us to determine the anatomical location of the APF in 91.5% of the sample. No complications were recorded in 85.1% of cases.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of APF by flexible bronchoscopy is a useful method, with an adequate safety and efficacy profile. The proposed diagnostic algorithm includes the use of EPD and performing a CT scan. Regarding endoscopic diagnosis: in case of continuous air leak, the first option is OE; and if the leak is intermittent, we recommend endobronchial OI, with BS as a secondary option (respective sensitivity 81% vs 63.4% and complications 8.1% vs 7.3%).