Pneumonectomy Causes Courses

A pneumonectomy is a surgical procedure to remove an entire lung, either to treat a medical condition or to improve quality of life. It is typically performed when cancer, infection, or retraction of the lung makes it necessary to take out part or all of the lung in order to save the life of the patient. The remaining lung is usually able to take over the functions of the removed lung within a few weeks after surgery. The most common causes of pneumonectomies are lung cancer, end-stage emphysema, end-stage COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and some pulmonary infections that cannot be treated with antibiotics. Other conditions that may require this procedure include bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, traumatic injury, pulmonary embolism, and severe pulmonary hypertension. Pneumonectomies are not without risks. Patients may experience some pain and soreness after their surgery, as well as respiratory complications such as hypoxia, atelectasis, and pneumothorax. These complications can be minimized with pre- and post-operative care. Other risks associated with this procedure include hemorrhage, infection, and air leakage.