Post lobectomy intercostal retractions

[Jackmcd]

I'm am 5 weeks post my upper left lobectomy. I am still experiencing  swealing and now Intercostal retractions. Is this normal or expected or possible as rest of surgery or is there a problem?

[LouT]

Hi Jack,

Welcome to the forum.  I had a lobectomy also and did not suffer from intercostal retractions.  Have you discussed this with your surgeon?  In addition, are you using your spirometer and a good wedge pillow to help elevate you to make breathing easier?  Others may have more experience but since intercostal retractions normally (although there is very little normal with LC) occur when breathing is blocked, I would want to make sure my surgeon was aware and proper steps could be taken to relieve the condition.

Lou