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Lung surgery
Definition
Lung surgery is any surgical procedure that allows the surgeon to directly affect the lungs. Examples include:
- Biopsy of the lung to make a diagnosis
- Lung transplantation
- Removal of a section of lung because of a tumor or an infection
Alternative Names
Thoracotomy; Lung tissue removal; Pneumonectomy; Lobectomy; Lung biopsy; ThoracoscopyDescription
While the patient is under general anesthesia, an incision is made between the ribs to expose the lung. The doctor will examine the chest cavity and remove diseased lung tissue.
This examination may be performed directly (thoracotomy) or with the aid of a camera (thoracoscopy). A chest tube is inserted to drain air, fluid, and blood out of the chest cavity. Then the ribs and skin are closed.
Why the Procedure is Performed
Lung surgery may be recommended for the following reasons:
- Cancer (such as lung cancer)
- Injuries with collapsed lung tissue (atelectasis, pneumothorax, or hemothorax)
- Permanently collapsed lung tissue (atelectasis)
- Permanently enlarged (dilated) section of lung (lobar emphysema)
- Permanently enlarged (dilated) airways (bronchiectasis)
- Pockets of infection (lung abscess)
- Small areas of long-term infection (such as highly localized pulmonary tuberculosis or mycobacterium)
- Tumors (such as solitary pulmonary nodule)
Risks
Risks for any anesthesia include the following:
- Reactions to medications
- Problems breathing
- Bleeding
- Infection
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outcome depends on the type and severity of the problem, but many patients recover nicely.
Recovery
Hospital stay is usually 7 - 10 days. Deep breathing is important to help prevent pneumonia and infection and to re-expand the lung. The chest tube remains in place until the lung has fully expanded.
Pain is managed with medication. Most people recover fully by 1 - 3 months after the operation.
Reviewed By: Robert A. Cowles, MD, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
