Novel use of a Synovis™ coupler device for a surgical lymphovenous anastomosis for the treatment of refractory chylothorax in a patient with central lymphatic flow disorder.

Refractory post-operative chylothorax in congenital heart disease is difficult to treat. We present a case of intractable neonatal chylothorax after cardiac surgery due to central lymphatic flow disorder that was treated by creating a lymphovenous anastomosis of the thoracic duct to the left external jugular vein for definitive treatment.