Hi, an x-ray and CT scan showed a mass approx. 9cm by 6cm between the heart and the lung, behind the lung if that makes sense. A biopsy has been done and an appointment made for 3 weeks time, so we had been advised not to worry about cancer, my mum has never smoked etc.
However, my mum is worried about how it will be removed, as she didnt recover well after surgery recently.
I know it might not have to be removed, but does anyone know how it might be removed?
Many thanks
2007-09-05 08:05:21 · 3 answers · asked by bluewatchgirl 1 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
Thank you.
2007-09-05 08:18:49 · update #1
in my mom's case, they broke a few ribs to get it out the front and she had drainage tubes for a few days. with my bro, the mass was so big,it took up the entire lung. they had to get it from the back and side and pull it out from the bottom of the rib cage. it really depends on what the mass is made of and where it is.
2007-09-05 08:18:56 · answer #1 · answered by racer 51 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it is NOT contained within the lungs or breathing tubes, the only way to get at it would be through an opening into the chest cavity. If it is within the lungs/bronchi, a scope would be used, however, given the size, I doubt it. She is looking at removal via an incision that would allow the surgeon access to the area for which he/she needs. As far as recovery, She will need to have her health "medically optimized" prior to surgery, and she should do as well as expected. Also, if the mass is attached to the lung, they may have to take a lobe of the lung out, or worst case, the whole lung. Alot depends on the what, where, etc... once they get in there. Good Luck!!
2007-09-05 15:16:44 · answer #2 · answered by Doug 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If they can, sort of like orthoscopic surg. Two or three small holes between the ribs, burn it loose, suck it out. Probably leave a drain for a few days.
2007-09-05 15:13:59 · answer #3 · answered by Bacse 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋