The excision of the thoracic wall combined with the transposition of the pedicled muscle flap is safe and effective in the management of postpneumonectomy empyema. Bronchopleural fistulae can be definitely closed by suturing the pedicled muscle flap into fistular lumen.

Two conditions have to be fulfilled for tracheal autografts to survive: One, well vascularising muscular flaps have to be employed, and second, a high dose of steroids must be given starting on the day of operation.

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