Endoluminal approaches to postoperative air leaks
This review examines prolonged air leak (PAL), a common complication after pulmonary resection that increases morbidity, hospital stay, and healthcare costs. Particular focus is placed on chest drain management, including PAL classification, digital drainage systems, and their role in objectively quantifying airflow and supporting chest tube removal decisions. The authors also review air leak localization techniques and minimally invasive endoluminal therapies, highlighting endobronchial valves as the most studied option for patients unsuitable for surgical re-exploration.
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