Our Summary

This research paper is about a study that was conducted to see how effective ultrasound is in monitoring the re-expansion of a lung after a part of it has been surgically removed (a procedure known as a lobectomy). The study was conducted from January 2018 to May 2021 on patients who had undergone a lobectomy. The researchers used both ultrasound and chest x-rays to monitor the patients’ lungs daily until their chest drainage was removed.

The researchers were looking for certain signs in the ultrasound that would indicate a pneumothorax (a collapsed lung). These signs included a positive lung point (a specific spot where the lung is visible in the ultrasound), an absence of sliding (an indication that the lung is not moving normally), and a consistent stratosphere sign with an absence of lung pulse, B-lines, I-lines, or consolidations (all signs of abnormal lung function).

The study found that ultrasound was very accurate in detecting these signs: it was 86% sensitive (meaning it correctly identified a true positive) and 100% specific (meaning it correctly identified a true negative). This was comparable to the accuracy of chest x-rays, which were 98% sensitive and 100% specific.

In conclusion, the researchers found that ultrasound is a reliable method for monitoring lung re-expansion after a lobectomy. It is also a technique that is easy to learn, even for inexperienced operators, and can be performed at the patient’s bedside. Therefore, it can reduce the need for repeated chest x-rays, which can be more inconvenient for the patient.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of this study on lung resection?
  2. How accurate was ultrasound in detecting signs of pneumothorax compared to chest x-rays according to the research findings?
  3. What are the benefits of using ultrasound to monitor lung re-expansion post lobectomy based on the study?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung resection is to follow their post-operative care plan closely, including any recommended breathing exercises or physical therapy to help with lung re-expansion and recovery. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for lung resection include those with early-stage lung cancer, lung nodules, bronchiectasis, tuberculosis, and other lung diseases that have not responded to other treatments. Additionally, patients with severe emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may also be recommended for lung resection to improve their lung function and quality of life. Ultimately, the decision to undergo lung resection is made on a case-by-case basis by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers.

Timeline

Before lung resection:

  • Patient undergoes preoperative evaluation and testing to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the surgery
  • Patient may receive preoperative counseling and education about the procedure and what to expect during recovery
  • Surgery is scheduled and patient is admitted to the hospital
  • Patient undergoes lung resection surgery, which may involve removing a portion of the lung or an entire lobe
  • Patient is closely monitored in the hospital postoperatively for complications such as bleeding, infection, or difficulty breathing
  • Patient may need to use a chest tube to drain any excess fluid or air from the chest cavity

After lung resection:

  • Patient is monitored closely for signs of lung re-expansion and complications such as pneumothorax
  • Chest x-rays and ultrasound are used to monitor the patient’s lung function and re-expansion
  • Chest drainage tube is removed once the lung has fully re-expanded and there are no signs of complications
  • Patient undergoes physical therapy and breathing exercises to help with lung function and recovery
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital and may require follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider
  • Patient may experience pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue during the recovery period, which can last several weeks to months

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 a lung resection procedure?
  2. How long is the recovery period after a lung resection, and what can I expect during this time?
  3. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after the surgery?
  4. How will my lung function be affected after a lobectomy, and what can I do to improve it?
  5. What signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication or problem with my lungs post-surgery?
  6. How often will I need follow-up appointments or tests to monitor my lung re-expansion and overall recovery?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions I need to follow after a lung resection?
  8. What are the chances of the cancer returning after a lobectomy, and what is the recommended follow-up plan for monitoring for recurrence?
  9. Will I need any rehabilitation or physical therapy to help with breathing and overall recovery?
  10. Are there any support groups or resources available for patients who have undergone a lung resection procedure?

Reference

Authors: Messina G, Bove M, Noro A, Opromolla G, Natale G, Ferrara V, Della Corte CM, Di Liello R, Martone M, Mirra R, Leonardi B, Leone F, Vicidomini G, Santini M, Fiorelli A. Journal: Ann Ital Chir. 2022;92:294-299. PMID: 36052465