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[Lung resection affects the postoperative arrhythmia and electrocardiographic axis deviation]
M Nonaka1, M Kadokura, S Yamamoto
1First Department of Surgery, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
Kyobu Geka. the Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery
|August 24, 1999
Summary
Lung surgery causes shifts in the mediastinum and diaphragm, potentially altering heart position. This study found that electrocardiographic QRS axis deviations after lung lobectomy or pneumonectomy may contribute to postoperative arrhythmias.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Electrocardiography
Context:
- Lung lobectomy and pneumonectomy can cause significant anatomical changes, including mediastinal shift and diaphragmatic elevation.
- These post-surgical alterations may influence cardiac position and electrical activity.
Purpose:
- To investigate the relationship between changes in the electrocardiographic QRS axis in the frontal plane and the occurrence of postoperative arrhythmias.
- To analyze the impact of different lung resection types on QRS axis deviation.
Summary:
- Electrocardiograms (ECGs) of 73 patients without pre-existing heart conditions were analyzed before and after lung surgery.
- Various lung resections, particularly right pneumonectomy and right middle/lower lobectomies, induced significant QRS axis deviations.
- Arrhythmias were observed in 14 patients post-surgery, with most exhibiting axial deviation, suggesting a potential link.
Impact:
- Findings suggest that post-surgical axial deviation of the heart may be a contributing factor to the development of arrhythmias after lung resections.
- This research highlights the importance of monitoring electrocardiographic changes following thoracic surgery.
- Understanding these changes can inform clinical management and potentially reduce the incidence of cardiac complications.