Name of the Procedure:

Thoracotomy with Diagnostic Wedge Resection Followed by Anatomic Lung Resection

Summary

A thoracotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the chest wall to access the lungs. This procedure often includes a diagnostic wedge resection—removing a small, wedge-shaped part of the lung for examination—followed by an anatomic lung resection—removing a larger, anatomically defined part of the lung to treat diagnosed conditions.

Purpose

A thoracotomy with diagnostic wedge resection and anatomic lung resection is primarily performed to diagnose and treat lung conditions such as tumors, infections, or other lung diseases. The goal is to remove diseased tissue, improve lung function, and gather diagnostic information to guide further treatment.

Indications

• Presence of lung tumors or masses
• Persistent, unexplained lung infections
• Lung biopsy for unexplained respiratory issues
• Patients with chronic lung conditions that have resisted other treatments

Preparation

• Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure
• Adjustments or temporary cessation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners)
• Pre-operative imaging (CT/MRI scans)
• Blood tests and pulmonary function tests
• Pre-surgical consultation including consent forms and anesthesia review

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered general anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the chest wall to access the lungs.
3. A small wedge-shaped portion of the lung is removed for diagnostic purposes.
4. Next, a larger, anatomic section of the lung is resected based on diagnostic findings.
5. The lung tissue is sent for pathologic examination.
6. The surgical site is closed with sutures or staples, and drainage tubes may be inserted.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity and underlying condition.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Cardiothoracic surgeon
• Surgical assistants
• Anesthesiologist
• Nurses
• Scrub technologists

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding and infection
• Complications with anesthesia
• Injury to surrounding organs or tissues
• Air leaks or pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
• Prolonged air leaks requiring additional interventions

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis and staging of lung conditions
• Removal of diseased tissue
• Potential cure or significant symptom relief
• Improved lung function and overall respiration

Recovery

• Hospital stay of 5 to 7 days, depending on recovery speed
• Pain management with medications
• Breathing exercises and physical therapy
• Follow-up appointments for wound care and to monitor lung function
• Avoid strenuous activities for several weeks

Alternatives

• Minimally invasive lung surgery (e.g., VATS - Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery)
• Non-surgical treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy (for cancer patients)
• Observation and medical management for less severe conditions

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia and will not experience pain. Post-operatively, pain may be present, managed with medications. There may be a period of discomfort and limited activity while the chest heals, but breathing exercises and physical therapy will aid in recovery.