Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study on whether and when to remove a type of congenital lung malformation (CLM) that doesn’t cause symptoms. Doctors continue to debate this issue. The researchers examined past cases of CLM removals between 2009 and 2021. They paid special attention to whether the patients had inflammation in the lung or had been given antibiotics for lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs, typically infections of the airways or lungs) before surgery.

The study found that of the 102 patients who had the CLM removal surgery at an average age of 14 months, 80% had no symptoms as newborns but 22% of these later developed a respiratory symptom. Also, 59% of the removed CLMs showed signs of inflammation, and this was significantly more likely in patients who had the surgery after they were 10 months old. They also found that patients who had the surgery later were more likely to have been treated for LRTIs before surgery.

The authors concluded that inflammation was twice as likely in CLMs removed after 10 months of age compared to those removed before 10 months. Also, those who had surgery later were more likely to have been treated for LRTIs. So, it might be better to remove these lung malformations earlier, especially for medical centers who choose to remove such malformations even if they are not causing symptoms.

FAQs

  1. What is the main focus of this research paper on lung resection?
  2. What did the study find in terms of inflammation in patients who had a lung malformation removal surgery?
  3. What conclusion did the authors draw based on the data related to the timing of the surgery and treatment for LRTIs?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about lung resection is to consider having the surgery earlier rather than later, especially if the lung malformation is not causing symptoms. This can help reduce the risk of inflammation and lower respiratory tract infections, which can impact the success of the surgery and overall recovery. It is important to discuss the timing of the surgery with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your individual case.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended lung resection include those with congenital lung malformations, especially if they are showing signs of inflammation or have a history of lower respiratory tract infections. The study suggests that earlier removal of these malformations may be beneficial in preventing complications such as respiratory symptoms and inflammation. However, the decision to recommend lung resection should be made on a case-by-case basis by a healthcare provider.

Timeline

Before lung resection:

  1. Patient may be asymptomatic or have mild respiratory symptoms.
  2. Patient may have been treated for lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs).
  3. Patient may undergo imaging tests to diagnose the lung malformation.
  4. Patient and healthcare team discuss the risks and benefits of surgery.

After lung resection:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to remove the lung malformation.
  2. Patient may experience pain and discomfort post-surgery.
  3. Patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days for recovery.
  4. Patient may require medication for pain management and to prevent infection.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and lung function.
  6. Patient may need rehabilitation or physical therapy to improve lung function and overall health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with lung resection surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process after lung resection surgery?
  3. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after the surgery?
  4. How will my lung function be affected after the removal of part of my lung?
  5. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or modifications after the surgery?
  6. How will my quality of life be impacted after lung resection surgery?
  7. What are the chances of the lung malformation returning after surgery?
  8. Will I need to have any follow-up appointments or tests after the surgery?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments or options available for my condition?
  10. How experienced is the surgical team in performing lung resection surgeries, and what is their success rate?

Reference

Authors: Engall N, Sethuraman C, Wilkinson DJ, Lansdale N, Peters RT. Journal: Eur J Pediatr Surg. 2023 Feb;33(1):81-84. doi: 10.1055/a-1957-6898. Epub 2022 Oct 9. PMID: 36209738