Name of the Procedure:

Removal of lung, other than pneumonectomy; 2 lobes (bilobectomy)

Summary

A bilobectomy involves surgically removing two lobes of the lung. This can help treat various lung diseases and conditions by targeting specific affected areas without removing the entire lung.

Purpose

Bilobectomy is typically performed to remove lung disease such as cancerous tumors, severe infections, or damaged lung tissue. The goal of the procedure is to eliminate diseased or damaged lung sections to improve overall lung function and patient health.

Indications

• Lung cancer that hasn't spread extensively.
• Severe infections or abscesses in the lung.
• Chronic lung diseases affecting specific lobes.
• Recurrent pneumonias localized to certain lobes.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to medications may be required, especially blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests like chest X-rays, CT scans, and pulmonary function tests are usually performed.
• Consultation with the surgical and anesthesia teams.

Procedure Description

• The patient will be placed under general anesthesia.
• The surgeon makes an incision in the chest (thoracotomy) or uses a minimally invasive approach (video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery or VATS).
• The affected lobes are carefully separated from the lung and other structures such as blood vessels and airways.
• Surgical instruments and advanced techniques, including staplers and tissue sealants, are used to remove the lobes.
• The chest is closed, and drainage tubes are placed to remove fluids and air from the chest cavity.

Duration

The procedure typically takes around 2 to 4 hours.

Setting

Bilobectomy is performed in a hospital, typically in a specialized surgical suite.

Personnel

• Thoracic surgeons
• Anesthesiologists
• Surgical nurses
• Respiratory therapists

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: bleeding, infection, and prolonged air leaks.
• Rare risks: damage to nearby organs, respiratory failure, or complications from anesthesia.
• Management: Risks are managed through careful surgical techniques, postoperative monitoring, and prompt intervention if complications occur.

Benefits

• Removal of diseased lung tissue improves overall lung function.
• Reduction of symptoms like pain, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
• Potential cure or control of lung conditions, leading to improved quality of life.

Recovery

• Patients usually stay in the hospital for several days post-surgery.
• Pain management strategies include medications and sometimes regional anesthesia blocks.
• Instructions on breathing exercises and activity restrictions.
• Full recovery can take several weeks to months with follow-up appointments for monitoring progress.

Alternatives

• Lobectomy: removal of a single lobe might be sufficient for less extensive disease.
• Pneumonectomy: complete removal of one lung for more extensive disease.
• Non-surgical options: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy might be considered, depending on the condition.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, the patient will be under anesthesia and feel no discomfort.
• Post-procedure, patients may experience pain, managed with medications.
• Patients will have drainage tubes for a few days, requiring care and management.
• Gradual return to normal activities with breathing exercises and physical therapy as needed.