Pneumonectomy is a major surgical procedure to remove a diseased or damaged lung. While this operation, like every surgery, carries the risk of certain side effects during and after the procedure, the benefits may outweigh these risks. Discuss all concerns and treatment options with your doctor or surgical team.
Definition
Pneumonectomy is the medical term for the removal of an entire lung. Pneumonectomy is most often used to treat lung cancers that are either large or in multiple sites on the lung, but it can also be used to remove tissue damaged in a traumatic chest injury or a tumor near the major pulmonary vessels. This is a surgery that is performed under general anesthesia and, though some lung surgeries can be performed using video thorascopic surgery (tools and cameras inserted through small incisions in the chest), the traditional technique uses a thoracotomy. This technique requires opening the chest with an incision and spreading or removing ribs.
General Surgical and Anesthesia Side Effects
Because this is considered major surgery, pneumonectomy involves some risks or side effects common to most major surgeries. Allergic reactions to the anesthetic can potentially occur, as can breathing problems as a result of the anesthesia process. Bleeding during the operation is possible, as are stroke or heart attack as a result of blood clots. Because surgery is taxing on the whole body, your surgeon will carefully evaluate your overall health, including cardiovascular health, before surgery.
Site-Specific Side Effects
Pneumonectomy involves removing an entire lung, but the lung is not the only structure being worked with. The bronchus and major blood vessels are clamped and cut in preparation for the lung's removal; these steps can result in bleeding, air leaking into the chest cavity or improper healing of the bronchus' stump. The surgery can often involve fluids and air leaking into the chest, so a temporary chest tube to drain blood, air and fluid is inserted before finishing the surgery.
Post-Operative Side Effects
Immediate post-operation side effects are also possible. Pain at the incision site is expected but can be treated with medication. Pneumonia is also a risk following surgery; respiratory therapists or other medical personnel can provide deep breathing and coughing exercises to prevent fluid buildup. Because blood clots are also a possible side effect of major surgery, you may be asked to either wear special compression socks or begin walking soon after surgery to help prevent clots.
Long-Term Side Effects
Side effects can, however, persist beyond the hospital stay. Complete recovery can take time, with pain possibly still present after discharge from the hospital. Shortness of breath with exertion is probably the most common long-term effect, with up to 60 percent of patients reporting shortness of breath up to six months after surgery. Dr. Joseph B. Shrager, Assistant Professor of Surgery and Director of General Thoracic Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, suggests that pulmonary function could continue to improve gradually for one to two years post-pneumonectomy.
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