How is a bronchogenic cyst treated?

How is a bronchogenic cyst treated?

The most successful and widespread treatment for bronchogenic cysts is complete surgical removal. Fine needle aspiration (a procedure in which a long, thin needle is used to remove the affected cells) is sometimes used as an alternative treatment option. But cysts treated with this method are more likely to come back.

Treating bronchogenic cysts during pregnancy

Bronchogenic cysts that are discovered in utero (in the uterus) during pregnancy only require monitoring in most cases. In rare instances, a needle procedure may be used to drain the cyst.

Treating bronchogenic cysts in newborn babies

If the bronchogenic cyst isn’t causing serious problems at the time of delivery, then you’ll likely schedule a follow-up consultation with your healthcare provider who worked with you during your pregnancy.

Rarely, if the bronchogenic cyst is interfering with vital organ function, then surgery may be performed in the delivery room. Your baby will be partially delivered so that they are still receiving oxygen through the umbilical cord. This gives your fetal surgeon time to remove the cyst and establish an appropriate airway. Once this is achieved, your baby will be fully delivered.

Treating bronchogenic cysts in infants, children and adults

Babies, children and adults who show no symptoms at birth require long-term follow-up to monitor the size and location of their bronchogenic cysts. Surgical removal is usually recommended. Your healthcare provider may recommend:

• Thoracotomy. During this procedure, your surgeon creates an incision in your side, back or between your ribs. Next, they’ll access the bronchogenic cyst and remove it.
• Video-assisted thorascopic surgery (VATS). This minimally invasive option involves the use of a thorascope (a fiber-optic camera). This allows your surgeon to view the problem area without making large incisions. People who undergo VATS typically have a reduced risk for post-operative pain and infection.