Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Pulmonary Sealant
• Medical Term: Sealant, pulmonary, liquid (HCPCS Code: C2615)

Summary

The pulmonary sealant procedure involves applying a liquid sealant to the lungs to help seal air leaks or other openings. This medical adhesive works to keep the lungs properly inflated and aids in the healing process.

Purpose

This procedure addresses issues such as persistent air leaks in the lungs, which can occur after surgeries or injuries. The goals are to seal the leaks to prevent complications, improve breathing, and promote lung healing.

Indications

• Persistent air leaks after lung surgery
• Traumatic injuries to the lung tissue
• Patients with certain pulmonary conditions that cause leaks or other openings

Preparation

• Pre-procedure fasting as instructed by your healthcare provider
• Adjustments to current medications as directed
• Diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans to evaluate lung condition
• Blood tests to ensure suitable clotting function

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient will be given general anesthesia to ensure they are unconscious and pain-free.
2. Preparation: Sterilization of the chest area.
3. Application: The surgeon will access the lungs, usually through a small incision or during an ongoing surgery, and apply the liquid sealant to the target area using a special applicator.
4. Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of lung inflation and seal integrity.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity and the extent of the lung issue.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital's operating room or surgical center.

Personnel

• Thoracic Surgeon or Pulmonologist
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical Nurses
• Respiratory Therapist (if required for post-op monitoring)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Mild pain and discomfort at the incision site, minor bleeding
• Rare risks: Infection, allergic reaction to the sealant, impaired lung function
• Possible complications: Incomplete seal leading to continued air leak, which may require additional treatment

Benefits

The primary benefits include immediate sealing of air leaks, quicker recovery of lung function, and reduced hospital stays. Most patients will notice improvement in their symptoms shortly after the procedure.

Recovery

• Post-procedure monitoring in a recovery room or hospital ward
• Instructions to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for several weeks
• Follow-up appointments for chest X-rays to ensure the seal is intact and the lung is healing
• Pain management as prescribed

Alternatives

• Observation: Monitoring the air leak until it resolves naturally (less invasive but slower recovery).
• Surgical Alternatives: Other surgical techniques such as mechanical stapling or suturing (may be more invasive).
• Pros and Cons: Observational approaches avoid surgery but may prolong recovery. Surgical alternatives are definitive but come with higher surgical risks.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel soreness and discomfort at the incision site after the procedure. Pain is typically managed with prescribed medications. Most patients experience significant relief of symptoms as the sealant effectively closes the air leaks, leading to better lung function and easier breathing.