Theraphy of neonatal chylothorax

A case of neonatal chylothorax following closure of a left-sided diaphragmatic defect and our therapeutic approach to this entity are presented. Conservative therapy with total parenteral nutrition and drainage is sufficient in most cases. Fluid and protein losses should be balanced exactly; immunoglobulin losses are compensated by early substitution. Early surgical revision, which carries an especially high risk in patients with a diaphragmatic defect or hernia, can thus be avoided in the immediate postoperative period.Offprint requests to: S. Kellnar