Chyle Leak after Oral Cancer Surgery - A Case Report

Abstract Rationale: Surgery for oral cancer necessitates neck dissection, which is a common and safe procedure. However, it can be associated with few complications. Chyle leak (CL) is one such rare complication of neck dissection surgery, which is a potentially life-threatening complication. Patient Concerns: We report a case of left-sided CL following neck dissection surgery in a case of cancer of the tongue. Diagnosis: Postoperatively, excessive drain output collection and biochemical analysis of fluid confirmed CL. Treatment: Immediate conservative measures were taken. Ligation of the thoracic duct was performed which successfully ceased CL. Outcomes: There was no sign of CL after ligation of the thoracic duct, and the patient was then discharged uneventfully. Take-away Lessons: In any case of CL, early diagnosis and prompt aggressive treatment is imperative to reduce morbidity as well as mortality. The management of CL includes low fat diet, parenteral nutrition, the use of pressure dressings and ligation of the thoracic duct.