Four measures to prevent respiratory complications before lung cancer surgery

Sputum retention, atelectasis, pneumonia, and respiratory insufficiency are common complications of the respiratory tract after lung cancer surgery. The incidence is particularly high in the elderly and frail, and those with chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Due to the pain of the wound after surgery, the patient cannot cough effectively, and sputum accumulation causes airway obstruction, atelectasis, and respiratory insufficiency.

Doing the following before lung cancer surgery can actively and effectively prevent respiratory complications:

1. Preoperative guidance

Preoperative guidance is the key to the smooth recovery of patients after surgery. Therefore, the purpose and significance of the operation should be explained to patients and their families, so that patients can master the specific methods to prevent respiratory complications, increase self-care knowledge, and improve their self-care ability. Smoking patients should be advised not to smoke before surgery.

2. Preoperative infection control

When there is a respiratory tract infection, elective surgery should be performed only after the infection is under control, especially for elderly patients whose systemic immune function is significantly reduced and their ability to resist infection is reduced.

3. Deep breathing exercises

Lung cancer patients have low lung compliance, and their breathing becomes significantly shallower and faster after surgery, which makes them prone to respiratory insufficiency and hypoxemia. Patients should be trained to do respiratory function exercises one week before surgery. Stair climbing exercises, that is, walking up more than 5 floors of stairs 4 times a day, are very helpful in enhancing cardiopulmonary function 2 weeks before surgery. Patients are also advised to walk and exercise to enhance their physical strength.

4. Effective coughing and expectoration exercises

That is, take two deep breaths, hold your breath for 2 to 3 seconds after the third inhalation, and then cough deeply three times.