Although they are typically uncommon, pneumonectomy complications can occur during or after this surgery. This eMedTV page highlights both minor and major complications, and lists factors that can affect the chances of complications occurring.
Infections with a pneumonectomy can be mild, like a skin infection, or more serious, like a chest infection. This eMedTV page explains the treatment options should an infection develop, which range from antibiotics to chest tubes to another surgery.
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.
Although it is rare, a heart attack with a pneumonectomy can occur. As this portion of the eMedTV archives explains, a heart attack occurs when the heart doesn't get enough oxygen for a period of time and part of the muscle dies.
This page of the eMedTV library explains what can cause a stroke during pneumonectomy and possible aftereffects, such as problems with speaking or walking. Ways in which you can minimize this risk (which is uncommon) are also provided.
Lung problems after pneumonectomy, while rare, occur more often in people who already have lung disease. This eMedTV resource discusses possible lung problems that can occur with this surgery, such as pneumonia, lung failure, and bleeding.
Although it is rare, problems with heart rate during or after a pneumonectomy can occur. This eMedTV page explains how, if you have existing heart problems, your doctor may use a pacemaker to prevent irregular heart rhythms with a 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.
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.
Like any surgery, there are medication risks with a pneumonectomy. This eMedTV article explains possible risks, such as skin rashes and anaphylaxis. By telling your doctors about any allergies and health conditions, you can minimize the risk.
With any surgery, there is a possibility of wound breakdown, and a pneumonectomy is no exception. This eMedTV article explains how with wound breakdown, the scar may be thicker, and you may need to change the bandage every day.
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.
Nerve injury from any surgery can cause long-term damage; however, this is rare. This section of the eMedTV archives explains the link between nerve injury and pneumonectomy, including symptoms, like pain in the bones, muscles, or skin.
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