A simple solution for management of the postpneumonectomy empyema cavity

Postpneumonectomy bronchopleural fistula with empyema is a difficult problem. Once the fistula is healed, successful closure of the pleural space is associated with varying degrees of success, as well as the potential for major reconstructive surgery. My colleagues and I describe a simple approach for the definitive management of the open pleural space involving split-thickness skin grafts to marsupialize the pleural cavity. (C) 2004 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.