Our Summary

This research study was conducted to understand how the remaining lung functions after a part of it has been surgically removed due to birth defects in children. The researchers used advanced MRI techniques, along with conventional lung function tests. They found that the remaining lung expands to fill the space left by the removed part, but its ability to take in and distribute air (ventilation) and blood (perfusion) is reduced in some areas. The extent of this reduction varies among patients and is not detected by usual lung function tests or standard MRI. Hence, the researchers suggest that children who have undergone lung surgery should undergo a functional lung MRI to get a more accurate picture of how their remaining lung is working.

FAQs

  1. What was the main purpose of this research study on lung resection in children?
  2. What did the researchers discover about the functioning of the remaining lung after a part of it has been surgically removed?
  3. Why do researchers suggest that children who have undergone lung surgery should have a functional lung MRI?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung resection is to follow a pulmonary rehabilitation program after surgery. This can help improve lung function, increase exercise tolerance, and reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia. It is important to work closely with healthcare providers to create a personalized rehabilitation plan that meets the individual’s needs and goals. Additionally, quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help support lung health after surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended lung resection include those with lung cancer, severe infections, lung abscesses, lung nodules, lung tumors, or other lung diseases that cannot be treated with medications or other therapies. Additionally, lung resection may be recommended for patients with severe emphysema, bronchiectasis, or other conditions that are causing significant symptoms and affecting quality of life. Ultimately, the decision to undergo lung resection is based on the individual patient’s specific condition and overall health, and should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Timeline

  • Before lung resection: The patient is diagnosed with a lung condition that requires surgery, such as lung cancer, a lung infection, or a birth defect affecting the lungs. The patient undergoes preoperative evaluations, imaging tests, and consultations with a surgeon to discuss the procedure and potential risks. The patient may also undergo prehabilitation to optimize their physical condition before surgery.

  • Day of surgery: The patient is admitted to the hospital and undergoes the lung resection procedure under general anesthesia. The surgery can be performed using minimally invasive techniques such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) or traditional open surgery. The surgeon removes the affected part of the lung, such as a lobe or segment, and closes the incisions.

  • Postoperative recovery: The patient is closely monitored in the hospital’s intensive care unit (ICU) or surgical ward for a few days after surgery. Pain management, respiratory therapy, and physical therapy are provided to help the patient recover. The patient may experience pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue during this time.

  • Follow-up care: The patient is discharged from the hospital once they are stable and able to breathe on their own. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon, pulmonologist, and other healthcare providers are scheduled to monitor the patient’s recovery and lung function. The patient may undergo pulmonary rehabilitation to improve their lung capacity and overall well-being.

  • Long-term outcomes: The patient’s remaining lung adapts to the loss of the removed part by expanding and redistributing ventilation and perfusion. However, some areas of the lung may have reduced function, which can affect the patient’s overall lung capacity and respiratory function. Monitoring with functional lung MRI and other tests can help detect any abnormalities and guide treatment decisions. Overall, the patient may experience improved symptoms and quality of life after lung resection, but long-term follow-up is important to ensure optimal lung function and overall health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a lung resection and why is it necessary in my case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with lung resection surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after lung resection surgery?
  4. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after the surgery?
  5. How will my lung function be affected after the surgery?
  6. Will I need any follow-up tests or imaging studies to monitor my lung function after the surgery?
  7. What lifestyle changes or precautions should I take after lung resection surgery?
  8. Are there any specific exercises or pulmonary rehabilitation programs that can help improve my lung function post-surgery?
  9. What are the signs and symptoms of complications that I should watch out for after the surgery?
  10. How often should I schedule follow-up appointments with you to monitor my lung health?

Reference

Authors: Willers C, Maager L, Bauman G, Cholewa D, Stranzinger E, Raio L, Casaulta C, Latzin P. Journal: Pediatr Radiol. 2022 Jun;52(7):1255-1265. doi: 10.1007/s00247-022-05317-7. Epub 2022 Mar 19. PMID: 35305121