Our Summary

The research paper is about a study that was conducted to examine the changes in patients’ heart rhythms after they’ve had lung surgery. The study focused on two main measurements - spatial QRS-T angle (spQRS-T) and corrected QT interval (QTc). These measurements are used to assess the electrical activity of the heart.

The study involved 71 adult patients who were undergoing lung surgery. The surgeries were grouped into four types: left lobectomy (LL), left pneumonectomy (LP), right lobectomy (RL), and right pneumonectomy (RP). These measurements were taken a day before the surgery and then 24, 48, and 72 hours after the surgery.

The results showed that there were significant increases in both spQRS-T and QTc in patients after lung surgery, particularly in those who had left pneumonectomy (LP). Additionally, it was observed that a small percentage (6.4%) of patients experienced postoperative atrial fibrillation (an irregular, often rapid heart rate), and these patients also showed the most significant changes in their spQRS-T and QTc measurements.

In simpler terms, the study found that lung surgery can affect the heart’s electrical activity, especially certain types of surgery. This change can potentially lead to an irregular heartbeat, although this was relatively rare in the study.

FAQs

  1. What measurements were the focus of the study on lung surgery and heart rhythms?
  2. What were the main findings of the study on heart rhythms after lung surgery?
  3. How does lung surgery potentially affect the heart’s electrical activity?

Doctor’s Tip

Based on these findings, a doctor may advise a patient undergoing lung resection to be aware of potential changes in their heart rhythm and to monitor it closely post-surgery. They may recommend regular follow-up appointments to check on the heart’s electrical activity and to address any issues that may arise. Additionally, the doctor may suggest lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking to help support heart health during the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for lung resection include those with early-stage lung cancer, lung infections such as tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung nodules, and other lung diseases that cannot be treated with medication or other less invasive procedures. Additionally, patients who have a high risk of developing lung cancer or have a family history of lung cancer may also be recommended for lung resection as a preventive measure.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline of what a patient experiences before and after lung resection would involve:

  • Pre-surgery assessment and preparation, including discussions with the healthcare team, physical exams, and possibly diagnostic tests.
  • Day of surgery, where the patient would undergo the lung resection procedure under anesthesia.
  • Immediate postoperative period in the recovery room, where vital signs are monitored closely.
  • Transfer to a hospital room for further monitoring and management of pain and potential complications.
  • Follow-up care, including physical therapy, breathing exercises, and medication management.
  • Long-term recovery, which may involve ongoing monitoring and follow-up appointments with the healthcare team.

After lung resection, patients may experience pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, and changes in their breathing patterns. They may also need to make lifestyle changes to support their recovery, such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and participating in regular exercise. In some cases, patients may need additional treatments or therapies to manage complications or promote healing.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about lung resection include:

  1. What specific type of lung surgery will I be undergoing (lobectomy, pneumonectomy, etc.)?
  2. How will the surgery affect my heart’s electrical activity?
  3. What are the potential risks or complications related to changes in heart rhythm after the surgery?
  4. How will my heart rhythm be monitored during and after the surgery?
  5. What steps will be taken to manage any changes in heart rhythm that may occur?
  6. Are there any pre-existing conditions or medications that may increase my risk of developing an irregular heartbeat after surgery?
  7. How long will it take for my heart rhythm to return to normal after the surgery?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to reduce the risk of irregular heartbeats following the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Bialka S, Jaroszynski A, Schlegel TT, Misiolek H, Czyzewski D, Sawicki M, Skoczylas P, Bielacz M, Bialy M, Szarpak L, Dabrowski W. Journal: Cardiol J. 2020;27(6):705-714. doi: 10.5603/CJ.a2018.0159. Epub 2018 Dec 21. PMID: 30575004