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Vocal cord dysfunction after left lung resection for cancer.
1Department of General and Thoracic Surgery, Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand, France. mfilaire@chu-clermontferrand.fr
Summary
Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) affects 31% of patients after lung cancer surgery, increasing complication risks. Early detection and treatment of VCD are crucial for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Pulmonology
- Oncology
Background:
- Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) is a potential complication following lung cancer surgery.
- Understanding its prevalence and impact is essential for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of VCD after left lung resection for cancer.
- To assess the impact of VCD on postoperative complications.
- To identify risk factors associated with VCD.
Main Methods:
- Prospective data review of 99 patients undergoing pneumonectomy or lobectomy with mediastinal lymph node dissection.
- Preoperative and postoperative fiber optic laryngeal examinations were conducted.
- Patients were divided into VCD and non-VCD groups for comparison.
Main Results:
- Postoperative VCD occurred in 31% of patients.
- The VCD group experienced significantly higher rates of pulmonary (P=0.014) and cardiac complications (P<0.001), including reintubation, pneumonia, arrhythmia, and cardiac failure.
- Preoperative radiotherapy (P=0.001) and pneumonectomy (P=0.008) were identified as independent predictors of VCD.
- Hospital stay was longer in the VCD group (22 days vs. 13 days, P<0.002).
Conclusions:
- VCD is a common complication after lung cancer surgery, associated with increased morbidity.
- Early identification and management of VCD are recommended to mitigate pulmonary complications.
- Risk factors such as preoperative radiotherapy and pneumonectomy necessitate vigilant monitoring for VCD.
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