Mediastinal lymphocele following radical esophagogastrectomy.

© 2008 Association médicale canadienne C is a rare but recognized complication of esophageal surgery. The close anatomic relation between the esophagus and thoracic duct explains the risk of chylothorax after esophagectomy. We report a rare case of a thoracic lymphocele associated with a chylothorax after radical esophagogastrectomy. This case is unique in that, after a period of conservative management, a large lymphocele developed in the posterior mediastinum and compromised respiratory function. This led to surgical excision of the lymphocele and ligation of the thoracic duct.