Eloesser Flap Surgery Procedure, Creation, Closure, Care, CPT Code

What is Eloesser Flap Surgery?

Leo Eloesser first introduced the Eloesser flap thoracostomy window in 1935, and Symbas and colleagues later improved it as a surgical therapy option for individuals with tuberculosis and pleural cavity infections linked to bronchopleural fistulas. When it was first described, the thoracostomy flap had two simultaneous purposes: the first was to allow passive drainage of the diseased pleural space, and the second was to create a one-way valve that would permit egress of fluid from the chest cavity without the return of air. Both of these goals were accomplished by creating a flap that covered the thoracic opening. This one-way valve, which was made out of autologous tissue, was developed with the intention of facilitating the expansion of the residual lung parenchyma so that it could fill the thoracic space. As a result of the development of medications that are more effective in curing tuberculosis, the demand for surgical procedures for the treatment of tuberculosis has practically vanished.

Eloesser Flap Surgery Procedure

The procedures for performing an Eloesser flap surgery are as follows:

• Typically, an incision is made in the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the chest wall between the ribcage.
• A triangular segment of tissue is excised from the chest wall, leaving a skin and muscle flap affixed at one end.
• To create a permanent aperture, or "stoma," through which a chest tube can be introduced, the flap is rotated and stitched to the skin of the chest wall.
• To allow liquid or air to exit the chest, a chest tube is introduced through the stoma and into the pleural space.
• The chest tube remains in position until the pleural effusion or pneumothorax has subsided.
• The Eloesser flap surgery is usually done with either local anesthesia along with sedative or general anesthesia, based on the patient's condition and preference. The surgical procedure can be carried out as an outpatient or as a part of an inpatient stay.

Eloesser Flap Creation

The Eloesser flap is a type of surgical surgery that leaves a permanent opening in the chest wall for the discharge of air or fluid from the pleural space. A more thorough explanation of the creation of the Eloesser flap is given below:

• The patient is repositioned in such a way that the surgeon will have access to the damaged side of the chest.
• Typically, an incision is made in the skin as well as the tissue that lies beneath it, and this takes place in the space between the ribs. According to the patient's unique requirements, the incision's size and placement may change.
• After cutting away a triangular portion of tissue from the chest wall, a flap of skin and muscle is left behind with one end of the flap still attached. To create the stoma, the flap is then twisted and stitched to the skin of the chest wall.
• To drain fluid or air from the pleural space, a chest tube is placed through the stoma and into the chest cavity.

Eloesser Flap Closure

• To allow the pleural effusion or pneumothorax to drain, the chest tube must remain in place.
• The chest tube can be taken out after the drainage has stopped and the underlying issue has been resolved.
• Depending on the decision of the surgeon, the Eloesser membrane is sealed with sutures or staples.
• An antiseptic dressing is used after the skin incision is stitched or stapled up.
• In the event of complications following surgery, such as discomfort or infection, the patient may need to remain in the hospital for observation and medical care.

Eloesser Flap Surgery Care

Postoperative care is necessary for patients who have had Eloesser flap surgery in order to ensure optimal healing and recovery. In some cases, patients might require pain relievers during the healing process. In order to monitor the healing process, patients may need to schedule follow-up sessions after the Eloesser flap, which is designed to establish a permanent drainage window into the pleural space.

Eloesser Flap CPT Code

There is no specific CPT code provided for the Eloesser flap. The Eloesser flap, on the other hand, is a type of surgical incision that is performed on the lungs and the pleura. The incision procedures performed on the lungs and pleura are designated by CPT code 32036.