Our Summary

This research paper analyzes the types of chest (thoracic) surgeries performed by military surgeons in Iraq and Afghanistan from 2002 to 2016. It found that most of the surgeries were performed at Role 3 medical facilities, which are more advanced than Role 2 facilities. The most common surgeries were bronchoscopies (examining the airways), thoracotomies (opening the chest), operations on the diaphragm, and lung procedures. There was a lot of variation in the number and type of surgeries performed over the 15-year period. The paper concludes that these skills are necessary for surgeons treating combat injuries, but current training methods make it difficult to maintain these skills. This is a problem not only for the U.S. military but also for other countries and humanitarian organizations.

FAQs

  1. What were the most common types of thoracic surgeries performed by military surgeons in Iraq and Afghanistan from 2002 to 2016?
  2. What are the differences between Role 2 and Role 3 medical facilities in terms of surgical capabilities?
  3. What are the current challenges in maintaining thoracic surgical skills amongst surgeons treating combat injuries, as mentioned in the research paper?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about thoracic surgery is to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity, and attending follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. It is important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your doctor promptly to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for thoracic surgery include those with:

  • Lung cancer
  • Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
  • Pleural effusion (build-up of fluid around the lungs)
  • Emphysema
  • Lung infections
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome
  • Chest wall tumors
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Tracheal stenosis (narrowing of the windpipe)
  • Diaphragmatic hernias

Overall, thoracic surgery may be recommended for a variety of conditions affecting the chest, lungs, and airways. Each patient’s specific situation will determine whether thoracic surgery is the best treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before thoracic surgery, a patient typically undergoes a series of diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays, CT scans, and pulmonary function tests to evaluate the condition of their lungs and chest cavity. They may also undergo blood work and other tests to assess their overall health and fitness for surgery.

Once a decision is made to proceed with thoracic surgery, the patient will meet with their surgical team to discuss the procedure, potential risks and benefits, and post-operative care. They may also meet with an anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia options.

During the surgery, the patient will be under general anesthesia and monitored closely by the surgical team. Depending on the type of surgery being performed, the surgeon may make an incision in the chest cavity to access the lungs, heart, or other organs. The surgery may involve removing a portion of the lung, repairing damaged tissue, or removing a tumor.

After the surgery, the patient will be closely monitored in the recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room. They may have a chest tube in place to drain excess fluid or air from the chest cavity. Pain management will be a priority, and the patient will be encouraged to move around and perform breathing exercises to prevent complications such as pneumonia.

In the days and weeks following surgery, the patient will have follow-up appointments with their surgical team to monitor their recovery and address any concerns. They may be prescribed medication to manage pain and prevent infection. Physical therapy may be recommended to help regain strength and mobility.

Overall, the timeline for a patient undergoing thoracic surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the individual’s overall health and recovery process. It is important for patients to follow their healthcare team’s recommendations for a successful recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of thoracic surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after thoracic surgery?
  4. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after the surgery?
  5. How experienced are you in performing thoracic surgeries?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing surgery?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  8. How long will the surgery take to perform?
  9. What can I expect in terms of pain management after the surgery?
  10. What post-operative care instructions should I follow to ensure a successful recovery?

Reference

Authors: Stern CA, Stockinger ZT, Gurney JM. Journal: J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2020 Sep;89(3):551-557. doi: 10.1097/TA.0000000000002800. PMID: 32467471