Okay, your surgery is scheduled. This post is meant to provide you with information and tips to prepare for thoracic surgery, what to do in the hospital, and when you return home. I’m hoping that the information here will alleviate some of your anxiety and fears.
You can do this; you will get through it! Be open to the support of family and friends as well as the folks here at Lungevity. We are here for you.
Pre-Surgery
o Eat healthily, get sleep, and also do some physical activity. It might just be walking, but the better your body works before surgery, the more quickly it can recover post-surgery.
o Make sure you have someone to count on for your first few days at home. You'll be tired and likely in some discomfort, so having someone there to assist you when you need it can be a real help. If you live alone and have Medicare, you can ask your doctor for a home nurse to visit, check on your progress, and change dressings. In-home care also lets you ask questions about your recovery.
o Get a wedge pillow. It will allow you to sleep in a more comfortable position, take the pressure off your back, and improve your ability to breathe comfortably. You may also want to keep a small pillow available to press against your body's surgery side when you cough.
o Arrange the nightstand with things you may need, so you have them within easy reach. Remember stretching is something to avoid after surgery.
o Make sure to fill your pain prescriptions and take them as recommended. Once you’re home, you'll need to be active, and it is harder to do to if you’re in pain. The meds are not a "forever thing," but are necessary to keep you comfortable enough to recover faster.
o Have the numbers of your doctors readily available to call if you have questions or experience symptoms that concern you.
o Pack your “hospital bag” bringing only the things you’ll need. Remember, a thoracic procedure requires a post-surgical stay of a few days before being discharged.
In the Hospital
o Show up on time.
o On the day of surgery, after the surgery takes place, they will likely have you sit up, stand, or even have you walk to a chair to sit for a bit. It is important to get you moving and exercise your lungs. Remember the surgeon likely gave you a pain block, so it’s unlikely you’ll feel pain.
o You should be given a Spirometer (if not, ask for one). Use it often; it will help to keep your lungs clear and rebuild lung capacity.
o TAKE YOUR PAIN MEDS AS INSTRUCTED. The pain block will wear off within 12-20 hours after surgery, and without the additional pain meds, you will get uncomfortable quickly, so please take the pain meds as prescribed.
o The day after surgery, you, your IV’s and chest tube/pump will go for a walk around the ward. Do not be an overachiever; do what is required and practice slow deep breathing when exercising.
o If you miss bathing, the nurse can provide towelettes as a substitute.
o Once you are stable, if your lung is not leaking air, and your body is properly absorbing post-surgery fluids, you’ll be set up for discharge. They’ll remove the chest tube, IV’s, and other paraphernalia they’ve attached, and you’ll be ready to go home.
Home Post-Surgery
o Have a plan to exercise. It should be walking; at first around your house and later outside (sunshine and fresh air are excellent tonics). But take it easy--this is not a sprint but a long race that you will win with each increasing step over time.
o Continue to use your spirometer; it is your best friend for increasing lung strength and function.
o You will be sent you home with pain meds. Take them as prescribed until pain is diminished. Pain restricts exercise and prolongs healing.
o REST WHEN YOU FEEL TIRED. Sorry for the caps, but this is important. You've had major surgery and need time to heal, adjust to changes, and adapt to old activities. Be kind to yourself and give yourself grace until you’re strong enough to manage your new normal.
o If you have any symptoms that concern you contact your doctor asap. For example, some people may hear/feel gurgling when breathing while it may be nothing it might be a condition (subcutaneous emphysema) that your doctor should be aware of. It can often resolve on its own, but keeping the doctor updated is a wise choice.
o When you're feeling up to it, update us on our forum. Let us know how you're doing and ask any questions. We're here for you!
Recovery differs for everyone; in my case it was about 6 weeks before I was almost back to routine activities after my Lobectomy. Please stop into the forum if you have questions. A good group of people will be there for you.
