Our Summary

Scientists have developed a new surgical tool that uses microwave technology to seal and cut blood vessels up to 5mm in diameter. This microwave surgical instrument (MSI) is especially useful in tricky situations where traditional suturing tools aren’t effective. The researchers used the MSI to remove a section of a lung tumor close to a major lung structure, to remove a subsection of a lobe of the lung, and to divide an incomplete fissure between lobes of the lung in three patients. In all cases, the patients recovered without any issues after surgery. This tool could potentially help surgeons in a variety of lung surgeries due to its ability to precisely dissect tissue and effectively seal it.

FAQs

  1. What is the Microwave Surgical Instrument (MSI) and how does it work?
  2. In what type of surgical situations is the MSI particularly useful?
  3. Were there any complications in the patients who underwent lung surgery using the MSI?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung resection is to follow post-operative care instructions closely, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding activities that could strain the lungs during the recovery period. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including quitting smoking if applicable, to support lung health and overall well-being.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended lung resection include those with lung cancer, lung infections, cystic fibrosis, severe emphysema, or other conditions that cause significant damage to the lungs. In some cases, lung resection may also be recommended for patients with benign lung tumors or lung abscesses. The use of the microwave surgical instrument (MSI) in lung resection surgeries can potentially benefit patients by providing a more precise and effective method of tissue dissection and sealing, leading to faster recovery times and reduced risk of complications.

Timeline

  • Before lung resection:
  1. Patient undergoes initial consultation with a healthcare provider to determine the need for lung resection surgery.
  2. Patient undergoes preoperative testing such as imaging scans, blood tests, and lung function tests to assess their overall health and suitability for surgery.
  3. Patient receives instructions on preoperative preparations such as fasting before surgery and avoiding certain medications.
  4. Patient undergoes lung resection surgery using traditional surgical tools, which may involve a longer recovery time and potential complications.
  • After lung resection with the use of microwave surgical instrument (MSI):
  1. Surgeons use MSI to seal and cut blood vessels during lung resection surgery, reducing the risk of bleeding and improving surgical precision.
  2. Patient undergoes lung resection surgery with the use of MSI, which may result in shorter operative times and reduced tissue damage.
  3. Patient experiences a faster recovery with fewer postoperative complications due to the precise dissection and sealing capabilities of the MSI.
  4. Patient undergoes postoperative monitoring and follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and recovery after lung resection surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How does lung resection with the microwave surgical instrument (MSI) compare to traditional surgical methods in terms of effectiveness and recovery time?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with using the MSI for lung resection?
  3. How experienced are you in using the MSI for lung surgeries, and what is your success rate with this tool?
  4. Will I need any additional tests or procedures before undergoing lung resection with the MSI?
  5. How long will the recovery process be after lung resection with the MSI, and what can I expect in terms of pain management and rehabilitation?
  6. Are there any specific dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery to optimize my recovery?
  7. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after lung resection with the MSI, and when can I expect to resume normal activities?
  8. What follow-up appointments or monitoring will be necessary after the surgery to ensure the success of the procedure?
  9. Are there any specific precautions or restrictions I should be aware of post-surgery to prevent complications or ensure optimal healing?

Reference

Authors: Kamigaichi A, Mimura T, Yamashita Y. Journal: J Cardiothorac Surg. 2021 Oct 18;16(1):305. doi: 10.1186/s13019-021-01692-8. PMID: 34663384