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Wedge resection is a surgical procedure where a small, wedge-shaped portion of tissue is removed from the lungs. This surgery is typically performed to treat early-stage lung cancer, particularly in cases of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Sometimes, it may also be used to diagnose lung cancer or other lung conditions.
Robotic/Thoracoscopic wedge resection
Lung
Wedge resection is considered less invasive compared to other surgeries for treating lung cancer.
Before the surgery, several tests may be prescribed to determine if you’re eligible for the procedure. These could include an ECG, chest X-ray, blood tests, cardiac stress test, lung function test, and nose and groin swabs. A cardiologist will check your heart, and you will be advised to refrain from smoking before surgery.
You will typically be asked to admit yourself to the hospital one day before the surgery. On the day of the surgery, fasting is required, and you should not eat or drink anything. If you need to take any medications, consult with your doctor beforehand.
Wedge resection can be performed in two ways:
Open Thoracotomy: In this traditional method, a 15-20 cm incision is made between the ribs to remove the affected lung tissue. This is an open chest surgery.
Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): This minimally invasive procedure involves making a small 3-4 cm incision to remove the affected lung tissue. It is less invasive compared to open thoracotomy.
Robotic Wedge Resection: Your doctor will decide whether open thoracotomy or VATS is best, depending on the size and location of the affected lung tissue. After the procedure, a chest tube may be inserted to drain fluids and air from the chest cavity.
After surgery, you will be monitored in the hospital based on your recovery progress. The chest tube will remain in place for 24-48 hours. A respiratory therapist will assist with your breathing during your hospital stay. A bladder tube may also be used to monitor urine output, which is usually removed the following day.
Before discharge, your surgeon will provide post-operative instructions, along with a prescription for medications to aid in recovery and manage pain.
While wedge resection is generally safe, there are some potential risks, including:
Recovery depends on whether the procedure was done via open thoracotomy or minimally invasive methods like VATS or robotic surgery. Generally, the recovery time takes about 4-6 weeks. Initially, you will feel fatigued, so rest is essential. Your surgical wounds typically take about four weeks to heal, and stitches are usually removed 12 days after surgery. You can shower, but you should pat dry the incision area carefully. Numbness, tingling, or inflammation at the site may occur, for which antibiotics will be prescribed.
Most patients can return to work 2-4 weeks after the procedure. A follow-up visit to your oncologist is usually scheduled two weeks post-surgery, and a check-up with your surgeon is typically planned for six weeks after surgery.
Is wedge resection a major surgery? Wedge resection is considered an important procedure, as it involves removing a portion of tissue from the lung to treat abnormalities like tumors.
What is the success rate of wedge resection? The success rate of wedge resection, especially for early-stage lung cancer, is generally high. Long-term survival rates are favorable, though individual outcomes depend on factors such as the tumor’s size, location, and the patient’s overall health.
Are there alternatives to wedge resection surgery? Alternatives may include other surgical procedures like lobectomy or segmentectomy, or non-surgical treatments such as radiation therapy or ablation techniques.
How painful is a wedge resection? Pain varies from person to person, but it is typically well-managed with prescribed pain medications. Most patients report manageable discomfort during recovery.
What is the cost of wedge resection surgery? The cost can vary depending on various factors such as the facility, surgeon’s fees, preoperative tests, and hospital stay.
How long do the results of wedge resection surgery last? Results are generally long-lasting, particularly when the surgery successfully removes the abnormal tissue. Regular follow-ups and screenings are essential for monitoring recovery.
What are the dietary or lifestyle restrictions after wedge resection surgery? A balanced, nutritious diet is recommended, along with avoiding smoking and incorporating regular exercise to support lung health and recovery.