BACKGROUND: Intraoperative airway injuries during thoracic surgery present a major problem.
METHODS: An intraoperative left membranous airway injury from a double lumen endotracheal tube was repaired during a robotic esophagectomy.
RESULTS: After interrupting the membranous airway with 3-0 PDS sutures and performing a Grillo pleural patch, there was no leak from the left mainstem. This was further buttressed with a large omental flap from the gastric conduit.
CONCLUSIONS: Even left mainstem membranous airway intraoperative perforations can be successfully repaired via a right robotic approach. This minimally invasive approach to fixing a dreaded complication allows for less pain and quicker postoperative recovery.
