Lobectomy for lung cancer with a displaced left B 1 + 2 and an anomalous pulmonary vein: a case report

Background A displaced left B 1 + 2 accompanied by an anomalous pulmonary vein is a rare condition involving complex structures. There is a risk of unexpected injuries to bronchi and blood vessels when patients with such anomalies undergo surgery for lung cancer. Case presentation A 59-year-old male with suspected lung cancer in the left lower lobe was scheduled to undergo surgery. Chest computed tomography revealed a displaced B 1 + 2 and hyperlobulation between S 1 + 2 and S 3 , while the interlobar fissure between S 1 + 2 and S 6 was completely fused. Three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) revealed an anomalous V 1 + 2 joining the left inferior pulmonary vein and a branch of the V 1 + 2 running between S 1 + 2 and S 6 . We performed left lower lobectomy via video-assisted thoracic surgery, while taking care with the abovementioned anatomical structures. The strategy employed in this operation was to preserve V 1 + 2 and confirm the locations of B 1 + 2 and B 6 when dividing the fissure. Conclusion The aim of the surgical procedure performed in this case was to divide the fissure between S 1 + 2 and the inferior lobe to reduce the risk of an unexpected bronchial injury. 3D-CT helps surgeons to understand the stereoscopic positional relationships among anatomical structures.