Lung Cancer Articles A-Z
After your lobectomy, you will have a large scar on your chest. As this eMedTV page explains, abnormal scars sometimes occur, but their appearance has nothing to do with the outcome of the surgery. This page discusses abnormal scars and lobectomy.
Abnormal Scars and Pneumonectomy
Some people are prone to abnormal scars, and a pneumonectomy will produce a scar, so this can happen. As this eMedTV article explains, however, these scars, called keloids, are not an indication of the results of your surgery.
After your lobectomy, your lung will probably leak air for a few days. As this page of the eMedTV site explains, an air leak following lobectomy occurs in the area that the tissue was cut away, and usually stops leaking once it heals.
Alternative Lung Cancer Treatment
Patients may find alternative lung cancer treatment, such as acupuncture, to be helpful in reducing side effects and symptoms. This eMedTV Web page looks at alternative lung cancer treatment and offers a list of questions to ask about such treatment.
The general anesthesia that is used for a lobectomy puts you into a deep sleep. As this eMedTV page explains, this keeps you from feeling any pain or pressure during the surgery. This page discusses the different types of anesthesia for lobectomy.
Anesthesia for pneumonectomy is used to keep you from feeling pain or movement during the surgery. This eMedTV Web page explains the different types of anesthesia, how is it administered, and possible side effects and complications that can occur.
Asbestos is a group of minerals used in insulation and other materials (such as brake shoes). As this eMedTV article explains, frequent exposure to asbestos can cause health problems, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
As this eMedTV Web page explains, some bleeding with a lobectomy is normal. Uncontrollable bleeding, however, can be very serious, and it may require a blood transfusion or another surgery. This page discusses bleeding following lobectomy.
If uncontrollable, bleeding with a pneumonectomy can be serious, but it's normal for some bleeding to occur. This eMedTV Web page explains measures doctors take if the bleeding becomes serious or doesn't stop, such as blood transfusions.
Blood Clots Following a Lobectomy
It is possible to have blood clots following a lobectomy, especially if you have had blood clots before. This eMedTV segment highlights the different types of blood clots that can occur after a lobectomy, such as a deep vein thrombosis.
Blood Clots Following a Pneumonectomy
Blood clots following a pneumonectomy are possible, especially if you have a history of this. This eMedTV resource highlights the different possible types of blood clots, like a pulmonary embolus, the risks they present, and how they are treated.
Bronchopleural Fistulas and Lobectomy
As this eMedTV page explains, a bronchopleural fistula after a lobectomy may result in fever, breathing difficulties, and coughing up blood. This portion of the Web site offers more information on bronchopleural fistulas and lobectomy.
Bronchopleural Fistulas and Pneumonectomy
As this eMedTV page explains, there is a link between bronchopleural fistulas and pneumonectomy, in that after the surgery, fluid or air can get into the space in your chest. Symptoms include fever, difficulty breathing, and coughing up blood.