When will the operation be performed?
The operation is usually performed on the same day as your hospitalization. In this case, you must arrive with an empty stomach. Stop eating and drinking six hours before the procedure.
Hospital stays last an average of five days.
+ INFO
If you take some medications, this may require hospitalization the day before or a few days before surgery.
What will happen after the procedure?
After the operation, you will be treated and monitored in the recovery room. You will have one or two chest drains, as well as an IV (venous line). The drains will be removed as soon as there is no air or liquid to evacuate, if possible the day after the operation.
How will pain be treated?
The passage of instruments between the ribs irritates the intercostal nerves. The medical care team will start your treatment for pain at the time of anesthesia administration. They will then adjust it throughout your stay. Feel free to report any pain or discomfort so that the pain treatment can be adjusted. Do not let the pain settle in!
It is important to feel at ease and comfortable so that you can get up quickly. This will allow you to practice respiratory physical therapy exercises that will keep your lungs healthy and prevent infections.
What are the potential complications?
Extended air leakage: air continues to escape from the lung through a small hole. In this case, the drain will be kept in place to evacuate the air. Sometimes the air passes under the skin, which is called subcutaneous emphysema. This mild and inconsequential complication occurs in approximately 15% of patients.
Lung infection (in about 15% of cases): the risk is increased if you stop smoking too soon before the procedure. In case of infection, you will be treated with antibiotics.
Arrhythmias (15 to 20%): the heart beats irregularly after the procedure. You receive treatment for a few days to control your heart rate.
Hemorrhage (5 to 10%): blood flows through the drain. In rare cases, the bleeding is too severe and a new procedure may be necessary.
Pulmonary embolism (5%): to prevent a clot from obstructing an artery in the lungs, you will receive a daily injection of a medication that thins the blood.
+ INFO
The drain is connected to a portable system that allows better mobility and reduces drainage time.