Chylothorax

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Abstract

The world literature on chylothorax is reviewed and the embryology, anatomy, and physiology of the thoracic duct system are detailed. The various types of chylothorax are classified and the diagnostic methods and treatment for each type described. The review concludes with a summary of the modern concepts of treatment of chylothorax.

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    Supported in part by U.S. Public Health ServiceGrants Nos. SST-514-A67 and 67003-01-68.

    The cooperation of Dr. Gerhard H. Muelheims for translations from the German and of Miss Dee Frizzo and Mrs. Ruth Schemkes for bibliographic references and secretarial assistance is greatly appreciated.

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    Copyright © 1971 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.