What to Expect Post Robotic Lung Surgery
You have decided to have robotic lung surgery. Although minimally invasive, this surgery is a big undertaking on your body. However, the outcome is that you will live longer and have a better quality of life.
Depending on what occurs during surgery and your individual plan, you will stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days. You will likely be able to return to your own personal care and daily activities in an independent manner before heading home from the hospital.
Here’s what to expect immediately after your surgery:
- You will be moved to the ICU after surgery and will spend 1 to 2 days there.
- You may wake up with a breathing tube, but it is usually removed the day after surgery.
- You will have to perform breathing and coughing exercises every hour while you are awake.
- You will be hooked up to one (or more) IVs.
- You will have chest tubes near the incision.
- You will receive pain medication (as needed).
- You may have blood drawn.
- The doctor will discuss your diet with you.
- You will come up with a plan with your doctor and family to help you with certain activities or tasks you are still unable to do on your own easily.
- Your chest tube is removed after a couple of days.
- After the chest tube is removed, you should wash the area with soap and water.
- You should walk three to four times a day.
You are unique, so your number of days in the hospital and experience will vary depending on your age, other conditions you may have, pain levels, and any complications. Your doctor’s post-op plan for you will be tailored to your needs so you can be on the best path to recovery.
If you’re looking for a surgeon to perform your robotic lung surgery, Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon. He will let you know what to expect during and after your surgery. He is happy to answer all your questions and work with you every step of the way. To learn more about the surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida. He treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.
