Thoracic Surgery

We have two lungs. There are three lobes on the right side and two on the left side. The lungs are responsible for oxygenation of the blood. They allow the gaseous exchange between the air you breathe and the blood. Oxygenation of the blood takes place and carbon dioxide is removed.

Investigations

• Pulmonary function tests
• High Resolution CT Scan of lung
• Ventilation Perfusion scan
• Bronchoscopy with Brushings or Bronchoalveolar lavage
• Trans-Bronchial Biopsy
• Mediastinoscopy

Lung Surgery

A portion of the lung or an entire lung can be removed depending on the extent of the disease while still maintaining quality of life.

Lobectomy: Removal of a portion of the lung.

Pneumonectomy: Removal of the entire lung.

Most often the surgeon performs lung surgery through a posterolateral thoracotomy or a muscle sparing incision.

After the surgery has been completed, the surgeon will insert one or two chest tubes (drains). These will allow air and fluid to drain out of the chest in the days after the procedure. Once the drainage has decreased, the surgeon will remove the drain.

After surgery, you have to do deep breathing exercises and coughing.

You must discuss the risks and benefits of the operation with your surgeon.