Persistent Air Leak in a Child Treated with Autologous Blood Patch Pleurodesis

A BSTRACT Bronchopleural fistula and persistent air leak are rare, high-risk pediatric complications. We report a 5-year-old with multiple leaks unresponsive to drains, suction, or attempted video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. Autologous blood patch pleurodesis (1 mL/kg) achieved rapid resolution without recurrence. The minimally invasive bedside procedure led to rapid lung reexpansion and sustained recovery, highlighting its value as an effective salvage therapy.