22-YEAR SURVIVAL AFTER INCOMPLETE RESECTION OF ADVANCED ADENOID CYSTIC BRONCHOGENIC-CARCINOMA

In 1972, a 42 year old patient underwent thoracotomy for adenoid cysti c carcinoma of the left main-stem bronchus, Pneumonectomy was performe d, but the resection was not complete as the tumour had invaded the ao rtic and tracheal wall. The patient did not receive postoperative radi otherapy. In 1993, the patient was readmitted with severe respiratory insufficiency due to complete endobronchial tumour obstruction of the intermediate bronchus and extensive tumour growth in the mediastinum, Endobronchial laser treatment followed by stent implantation led to im mediate symptomatic relief, The tumour then responded well to combined endobronchial and percutaneous radiotherapy. The patient died 7 month s after readmission from ileus due to pancreatitis. We conclude that p atients with advanced adenoid cystic carcinoma may profit from palliat ive surgery with respect not only to symptoms but also to duration of life.