Post-surgical residual (lobectomy, pneumonectomy, etc.)

Post-surgical residual (lobectomy, pneumonectomy, etc.)

Post-surgical residual refers to the remaining effects or complications that can occur after certain surgical procedures, such as lobectomy or pneumonectomy. These procedures involve the removal of a portion or the entire lung, and the post-surgical residual refers to the consequences or conditions that may persist after the surgery. 

Causes of Post-Surgical Residual

• Surgical complications

Post-surgical residual can occur as a result of complications during or after the surgical procedure. These complications may include infection, bleeding, or damage to surrounding tissues or organs.

• Incomplete healing

In some cases, the surgical site may not heal completely, leading to residual symptoms or complications.

• Underlying lung conditions

Post-surgical residuals can also be influenced by pre-existing lung conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or lung cancer.

Symptoms of Post-Surgical Residual

• Chest pain

Pain in the chest, especially around the surgical site, can be a symptom of post-surgical residual.

• Shortness of breath

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath is a common symptom that may persist after lung surgery.

• Cough

A persistent cough, sometimes accompanied by sputum production, can be a symptom of post-surgical residual.

• Fatigue

Feeling tired or weak is a common symptom that may persist after lung surgery.

• Infection

In some cases, post-surgical residual can be associated with infection, which may present with symptoms such as fever, chills, or increased pain at the surgical site.

Diagnosis of Post-Surgical Residual

• Physical examination

A thorough examination of the chest and surgical site is performed to assess the presence of post-surgical residual.

• Imaging tests

Imaging tests such as chest X-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be used to visualize the chest and surgical site and determine the extent of any residual complications or conditions.

• Pulmonary function tests

Pulmonary function tests measure how well the lungs are functioning and can help assess any residual lung function or impairment.

Or rate primary disorder.

Note (1): A 100-percent rating shall be assigned for pleurisy with empyema, with or without pleurocutaneous fistula, until resolved.

Note (2): Following episodes of total spontaneous pneumothorax, a rating of 100 percent shall be assigned as of the date of hospital admission and shall continue for three months from the first day of the month after hospital discharge.

Note (3): Gunshot wounds of the pleural cavity with bullet or missile retained in lung, pain or discomfort on exertion, or with scattered rales or some limitation of excursion of diaphragm or of lower chest expansion shall be rated at least 20-percent disabling. Disabling injuries of shoulder girdle muscles (Groups I to IV) shall be separately rated and combined with ratings for respiratory involvement. Involvement of Muscle Group XXI (DC 5321), however, will not be separately rated.