Surgical endoscopy
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Major thoracic or neck surgery or penetrating trauma can cause injury to the thoracic duct and development of a chylothorax. Chylothorax results in metabolic and immunologic disorders that can be life threatening, with a mortality rate reaching 50%. The management of chyle leaks is dependent on the etiology and daily output. Interventions are used to treat only leaks unresponsive to medical management or those with an output exceeding 1,000 ml/day. ⋯ The percutaneous management of chyle leak is feasible, with low morbidity and mortality rates and a high rate of effectiveness. This approach should be considered before more invasive procedures.