Postlobectomy Early Complications

Thorac Surg Clin. 2015 Aug;25(3):355-64. doi: 10.1016/j.thorsurg.2015.04.003. Epub 2015 Jun 12.

Abstract

Immediate postoperative complications are common after lobectomy. The most effective management of postoperative crises is prevention, which starts with preoperative preparation and patient screening. There are many factors that can be controlled and improved by the patient. Equally important is patient selection, which is influenced by pulmonary function tests, cardiopulmonary reserve, and preexisting comorbidities. After the operation, the care team can also greatly improve outcomes with aggressive cardiopulmonary therapies, ambulation, vigilant monitoring, and frequent assessments of the patient. Prevention strategies can minimize risks; however, when they occur, a proactive approach may minimize the long-term sequelae.

Keywords: Air leak; Atrial fibrillation; Chylothorax; Hemorrhage; Nerve injury; Pneumonia/mucous plugging; Right middle lobe torsion.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Fibrillation / etiology
  • Atrial Fibrillation / therapy
  • Humans
  • Laryngeal Nerve Injuries / etiology
  • Laryngeal Nerve Injuries / therapy
  • Lung Diseases / etiology
  • Lung Diseases / therapy
  • Phrenic Nerve / injuries
  • Pneumonectomy / adverse effects*
  • Pneumothorax / etiology
  • Pneumothorax / therapy
  • Postoperative Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Postoperative Hemorrhage / therapy
  • Postoperative Period