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Segmentectomy Surgery

Overview, Procedure, and Recovery

Segmentectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion of an organ, typically to treat tumours or cancer. In this surgery, the malignant tissue is excised along with a margin of healthy tissue to prevent the spread of the disease. Segmentectomy is typically performed when cancer or tumorous growth is localized, with no signs of metastasis.

Alternate Names for Segmentectomy Surgery

Segmentectomy is also referred to as segmental resection, tumorectomy, broad excision, or quadrantectomy.

Body Locations for Segmentectomy

This procedure can be performed on various organs or glands, including the lungs, breasts, or other affected regions.

Type of Procedure

Segmentectomy is a surgical procedure.

Preparation for Segmentectomy Surgery

  • Communicate any concerns with your doctor before the surgery.
  • Complete any prescribed blood tests.
  • If you smoke, it is advisable to quit as soon as possible to avoid complications.
  • Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or herbal supplements. You may be instructed to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin, before the surgery.
  • Follow any fasting instructions, typically not eating or drinking the night before the procedure.
  • Arrive at the surgery location on time on the day of your procedure.

Segmentectomy Surgery Procedure

  • The patient is placed under general anaesthesia at the start of the procedure.
  • The surgeon makes several small incisions in the affected area to insert a thoracoscope and other necessary surgical instruments.
  • The tumour is located, and the surgeon removes the cancerous tissue along with a portion of the surrounding healthy tissue. Blood vessels and bronchial structures are carefully severed and sealed.
  • In most cases, nearby lymph nodes are removed to minimize the risk of cancer recurrence.
  • The surgical area is then cleaned with aseptic distilled water, and the incisions are sutured closed. The tissue specimens are sent to a pathology lab for examination.

Recovery After Segmentectomy Surgery

  • If open surgery was performed, the hospital stay typically lasts five to seven days. During this time, the medical team will monitor your recovery.
  • Upon discharge, you will receive instructions regarding physical activity. It is generally advised to avoid driving or strenuous exercise for at least a week.
  • Respiratory function may be affected post-surgery. Your doctor will guide you through deep breathing exercises to help alleviate any breathing difficulties.
  • A special diet may be recommended to aid in wound healing.
  • Four to six weeks after surgery, many patients undergo radiation therapy, which typically lasts four to five weeks.

Follow-Up Care After Segmentectomy Surgery

Even after active cancer treatment has concluded, ongoing care is crucial to ensure the cancer has not returned. This follow-up care includes regular physical exams and medical testing to monitor your recovery.

  • Cancer rehabilitation may be recommended, including physical therapy, pain management, vocational counseling, dietary advice, and emotional support. The aim of rehabilitation is to help patients regain control of their lives and maintain independence.

Risks Associated with Segmentectomy Surgery

While thoracic surgery is generally safe, like all surgeries, it carries some risks. Potential complications include:

  • Infection at the incision site
  • Persistent air leak, which may require a chest tube to stay in place longer than usual
  • Bleeding
  • Pain or numbness around the incision area
  • Pneumonia (lung infection)
  • Atrioventricular fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), which is typically temporary and can be managed with medication

Though the risks are present, they are relatively rare, and most patients recover successfully with appropriate care.

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