A complex and challenging surgery was successfully performed at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital to save the life of Ms. K.L., a 74-year-old patient initially misdiagnosed with lung cancer.
Rare Disease, Easily Misdiagnosed
Ms. K.L. was transferred to the hospital after treatment at a local medical facility with an initial diagnosis of lung cancer, a malignant tumor invading the bronchi and lungs. Initial symptoms, including persistent chest pain on the left side, stabbing sensations, a dry throat, and shortness of breath while sitting, led to her hospitalization. Doctors conducted CT scans, X-rays, ultrasounds, and other diagnostic tests to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Due to the inaccurate initial diagnosis, doctors consulted Associate Professor Vu Huu Vinh, Head of the Thoracic Surgery Department, for specialized advice.
Pulmonary Arterial Aneurysm: The Real Cause
Based on examination results and tests, Associate Professor Vinh determined that Ms. K.L. had a left pulmonary arterial aneurysm, measuring up to 15cm in diameter, extending from the origin of the left pulmonary artery to both the upper and lower lobes of the left lung. This aneurysm caused blood and pus to leak into the left pleural cavity, severely damaging the bronchi and mediastinum. This is an extremely rare condition, easily mistaken for lung cancer, requiring sophisticated and specialized surgical techniques.
Complex Major Surgery
Ms. K.L.’s critical condition required a hospital-wide consultation and a meticulous surgical plan. Before surgery, doctors placed multiple-lumen central arterial and venous catheters to ensure safety. Central venous pressure was closely monitored throughout the procedure.
The large (15x15cm) pulmonary arterial aneurysm, firmly attached to the upper lobe of the lung and pulsating with the heartbeat, along with the adhesion of the left lung to the chest wall, containing cloudy yellow fluid and pleura, posed significant challenges for the surgical team. Controlling infection and ensuring patient safety was paramount.
After 3 hours of intense surgery, the team successfully detached the pulmonary arterial aneurysm, removed the entire left lung, and corrected the mediastinum, ensuring the patient’s respiratory and circulatory function.
Outcomes and Recommendations
On postoperative day 3, Ms. K.L.’s condition stabilized. This is one of the complex and successful surgeries performed by the Thoracic Surgery department, demonstrating the professionalism and dedication of the medical staff.
Doctors recommend that if you experience any unusual symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, you should immediately seek medical attention for examination and timely treatment to avoid dangerous complications.
