Our Summary

This research study investigates the cases of lung infarction, a rare complication that can occur after lung resection surgery. The researchers examined medical records from 2006 to 2015, selecting only those cases where there was no apparent cause for the infarction.

The researchers found 7 such cases. These patients were mostly men, with an average age of 62.2 years. Most of these patients had experienced some sort of complication during surgery, though two had not. The main symptom that led to the discovery of the infarction was hemoptysis, or coughing up blood. The time it took for symptoms to show up varied widely, from 4 to 164 hours after surgery.

All of these patients had to undergo a second operation, which involved further lung resection. The researchers found no apparent cause for the infarctions in the histopathology report, which examines tissue for disease.

After the second operation, some patients developed additional complications, such as irregular heart rhythm or a fistula, which is an abnormal connection between the bronchus and the pleura. One patient died after requiring a transsternal pneumonectomy, a surgery that removes the entire lung.

The researchers conclude that lung infarction after lobectomy (removal of a part of the lung) is a rare complication and sometimes the cause is not clear. They suggest that extensive manipulation or complications during surgery could trigger this problem. Treatment usually requires a second operation.

FAQs

  1. What is lung infarction and how often does it occur after lung resection surgery?
  2. What symptoms led to the discovery of lung infarction in the patients studied?
  3. What treatments are necessary for patients who experience lung infarction after lung resection surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung resection is to closely monitor for any unusual symptoms after surgery, such as coughing up blood or chest pain, and to seek medical attention immediately if any concerning symptoms arise. It’s also important to follow post-operative care instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to catch any potential complications early.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for lung resection surgery include those with lung cancer, lung infections, lung abscesses, or other lung diseases that have not responded to other treatments. Additionally, patients with lung nodules, lung tumors, or other abnormalities that may be indicative of cancer may also be recommended for lung resection. It is important for patients to discuss their specific case with a healthcare provider to determine if lung resection is the best treatment option for them.

Timeline

The timeline of a patient’s experience before and after lung resection surgery can be summarized as follows:

Before surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a lung condition that requires surgical intervention.
  2. Patient undergoes preoperative assessments, tests, and consultations with healthcare providers.
  3. Surgery is scheduled, and the patient is informed of the risks and benefits of the procedure.

During surgery:

  1. Patient is placed under anesthesia, and the surgeon performs the lung resection.
  2. Complications may arise during surgery, such as bleeding or infections.

After surgery:

  1. Patient is monitored in the recovery room and then transferred to a hospital room for further observation.
  2. Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and difficulty breathing in the immediate postoperative period.
  3. Patient is given pain medication, antibiotics, and other medications as needed.
  4. Patient is encouraged to do breathing exercises and walk to prevent complications such as pneumonia.
  5. Patient may be discharged from the hospital within a few days to a week, depending on their recovery progress.
  6. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for postoperative appointments and monitoring.
  7. Patient may experience complications such as lung infarction, which may require additional surgery and treatment.

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after lung resection surgery involves thorough preparation, the surgical procedure itself, and postoperative care to ensure a successful recovery and minimize complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is lung resection surgery and why is it being recommended for me?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with lung resection surgery, including the rare complication of lung infarction?

  3. How often does lung infarction occur after lung resection surgery?

  4. What symptoms should I watch for that may indicate a complication such as lung infarction?

  5. How soon after surgery should I contact you if I experience any concerning symptoms?

  6. What additional tests or monitoring will be done to check for complications after surgery?

  7. What is the treatment for lung infarction if it does occur after lung resection surgery?

  8. What are the chances of needing a second operation if complications such as lung infarction occur?

  9. Are there any preventive measures or precautions that can be taken to reduce the risk of complications after lung resection surgery?

  10. How will my recovery and overall lung function be affected if complications such as lung infarction occur after surgery?

Reference

Authors: Kouritas VK, Kefaloyannis EM, Chaudhuri N, Milton R. Journal: Asian Cardiovasc Thorac Ann. 2018 Jun;26(5):371-376. doi: 10.1177/0218492318776144. Epub 2018 May 7. PMID: 29734831