Simple Carinal Cartilage Suture for High-Caliber Mismatch in Right Upper Lobe Sleeve Lobectomy

Abstract

We thoracic surgeons sometimes face a problem of high-caliber mismatch in sleeve lobectomy. The large size disparity between the proximal and distal stump requires not only an appropriate anastomotic technique but also an appropriate approach to the stumps. We report a case of a simple carinal cartilage suture helping correct high-caliber mismatch in right upper lobe sleeve lobectomy. Sutures on the anterior wall of the carinal cartilage effectively reduced the size disparity of the stumps. This approach could be a complementary option for high-caliber mismatch in right upper lobe sleeve lobectomy.