Lung and Chest Surgery: What to Expect
Preparing for surgery can be stressful. To help you feel more comfortable, we have compiled some resources to help you learn what to expect before, during and after your upcoming surgery.
The American Heart Association provides several tips to help you feel prepared for your upcoming surgery. To learn on common types of heart surgery procedures and how to prepare for your procedure, please refer to the following materials.
You will be require you to stay in the hospital during your recovery from surgery. The length of your stay may vary depending the type of procedure. After surgery, you will in the intensive care unit (ICU) or recovery room. During your hospital stay, you will receive expert care from doctors and nurses. They will monitor your progress using several medical devices.
For general information on what to expect during your hospital stay, please refer to the following materials from the American Heart Association.
Prior to being discharged from the hospital, your physician will provide you with instructions for your at-home recovery. You will be provided with information on wound care, pain management, medication, activity and diet. You will also be provided with a discharge summary with follow-up appointment information.
- Post-surgery care for cardiac patients
- Post-surgery care for thoracic patients
- Recovery tips from the American Heart Association
Patients may also want to talk to their health care provider about a cardiac rehabilitation. Read more about cardiac rehabilitation programs from the American Heart Association.