Our Summary

This study looked at two types of anesthetics used in surgeries not involving the heart but the chest area. They reviewed 16 trials involving 1467 patients and found that one type, called “volatile anesthetics”, had better outcomes for lung surgeries. These patients had fewer complications after surgery and spent less time in the intensive care unit. Additionally, these anesthetics reduced certain markers of inflammation in the airways. However, there was no significant difference in short-term death rates, complications after esophagus surgery, or certain other measures of inflammation. Therefore, the researchers concluded that volatile anesthetics may be a better choice for lung surgeries, perhaps because they reduce inflammation in the airways.

FAQs

  1. What were the two types of anesthetics studied in the research for thoracic surgery?
  2. How did the use of volatile anesthetics impact the outcome of lung surgeries?
  3. Did the study find any significant difference in short-term death rates or complications after esophagus surgery between the two types of anesthetics?

Doctor’s Tip

It is important to discuss with your doctor the type of anesthetic that will be used in your thoracic surgery. Based on recent research, volatile anesthetics have been shown to have better outcomes for lung surgeries, including fewer complications and shorter ICU stays. This information can help you make informed decisions about your surgery and potentially improve your recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for thoracic surgery include those with lung cancer, esophageal cancer, chest trauma, emphysema, lung infections, severe pneumonia, and certain other conditions affecting the chest area. Thoracic surgery may also be recommended for patients who require lung transplantation or have certain congenital chest abnormalities.

Timeline

Before thoracic surgery:

  1. Consultation with a thoracic surgeon to discuss the procedure and potential risks.
  2. Pre-operative testing such as blood work, imaging scans, and pulmonary function tests.
  3. Preparing for surgery by following instructions on fasting, medication management, and lifestyle changes.
  4. Anesthesia consultation to discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used during the surgery.
  5. Admission to the hospital on the day of surgery and preparation for the procedure.

After thoracic surgery:

  1. Recovery in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) immediately after surgery.
  2. Monitoring in the intensive care unit (ICU) or a step-down unit for a period of time depending on the complexity of the surgery.
  3. Pain management and physical therapy to aid in recovery and prevent complications.
  4. Monitoring for potential complications such as infection, bleeding, or respiratory issues.
  5. Discharge from the hospital with instructions for at-home care and follow-up appointments with the surgeon.
  6. Rehabilitation and recovery at home, including gradually increasing activity levels and monitoring for any signs of complications.

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after thoracic surgery involves thorough preparation, close monitoring, and ongoing care to ensure a successful recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the specific risks and benefits of thoracic surgery for my condition?
  2. What alternative treatment options are available for my condition?
  3. How experienced are you in performing thoracic surgeries?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after thoracic surgery?
  5. What are the potential complications or side effects of thoracic surgery?
  6. Will I need any additional tests or evaluations before the surgery?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and why?
  8. Will I have a chest tube after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  9. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  10. What steps can I take to optimize my recovery and improve the success of the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Fan Y, Yu D, Liang X. Journal: Minerva Anestesiol. 2021 Aug;87(8):927-939. doi: 10.23736/S0375-9393.21.15135-1. Epub 2021 May 3. PMID: 33938675