The Annals of thoracic surgery
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Contralateral pneumothorax is a rare complication after pneumonectomy. We present a patient with bullous emphysema and a defect in the medial wall of a ventrally located bulla that drained via the postpneumonectomy space, producing subcutaneous emphysema without a pneumothorax in the remaining lung. The patient fully recovered after conservative treatment.
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Even if the thoracic endovascular aortic repair or open stent grafting technique becomes popular, surgical total arch replacement is still important and will continue to be necessary. Distal anastomosis of total arch replacement is critical in this procedure. This article describes an easy and useful method for using a malleable retractor ring in the distal anastomosis of the total arch replacement.
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We reviewed our experience with valve-sparing aortic root reconstruction (VSARR) using the sinus of Valsalva graft in children, teenagers, and young adults with connective tissue disorders. ⋯ VSARR using the sinus of Valsalva graft is a reproducible technique that achieves acceptable early and intermediate results. It is suitable for children, teenagers, and young adults. Anticoagulation is avoided. The procedure is appropriate for emergency operations but should be used with caution in patients with a bicuspid aortic valve.