What question did this study set out to answer?

To evaluate treatment options for persistent air leaks after thoracic surgery.

May 6, 2026Open Access

Management of Persistent Air Leak

SSSantiago SernaMedical College of Wisconsin MKMarium KhanMedical College of Wisconsin KSKRUPA SHINGADAMedical College of Wisconsin

Key Points

To evaluate treatment options for persistent air leaks after thoracic surgery.
Review of newer treatment alternatives for persistent air leaks.
Discussion on surgical repair efficacy and limitations.
Emphasis on the need for randomized controlled trials and long-term monitoring.
Surgical repair is the primary treatment but has limited efficacy.
Recent developments provide less invasive treatment options.
Research highlights the necessity for controlled trials comparing treatments.

Abstract

Alveolar–pleural or broncho-pleural fistulas, leading to persistent air leaks (PALs), are associated with prolonged hospitalization and substantial morbidity. While guidelines advocate surgical repair as the primary treatment, its efficacy is limited. For patients recently subjected to thoracic surgery or those for whom surgery is contraindicated due to severe illness, viable treatment alternatives have been lacking. This article reviews the newer and less invasive treatment options for PALs. Further research is crucial, including randomized controlled trials comparing these options, and long-term monitoring of intervention outcomes is warranted.

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