Thoracotomy

[topsecret123]

Has anyone had a thoracotomy? I'm having one in a week to remove a cyst. What was the recovery like?

Bump!

Hi topsecret, not had one myself but work within this area and want to give you some reassurance.
Recovery will take quite a few weeks to be back to full capabilities with 3-5 days as an inpatient. Good pain relief, early mobilisation and adjusted exercise with physiotherapist is important. Obviously, this is dependent on a few factors but 3-5 days is typical for inpatient stay.
Once home, continue with pain relief (very important) and gentle exercise (walking, deep breathing exercises) and you'll be back on your feet within weeks.
Listen to your body, you'll know your limitations. Best of luck

My 83 year old dad had one this spring for heart surgery.

He was up and walking to the toiled, chest drain bag in one hand, catheter bag in the other, within 24 hrs of the surgery - unaided.

Yes, he is a nutter and he had a so-called 'mini-thoracotomy (the lower part of the breast bone was not cut through), but his chest scar was still 8 inches long.

I think how long your recovery is likely to be will depend not just on the operation through your chest wall but how complicated or straightforward the removal of the cyst will be.

V best of luck

Thank you! I'm desperate to get it over and done with. I'm very fit at the moment and I'm hoping I can return to that state asap after!