[Complications in patients undergoing thoracotomy for lung carcinoma]

Lung cancer is a common fatal disease, and fewer than 20% of all lung cancer patients are candidates for a curative resection. Major concerns, however, are the mortality and morbidity rates for pulmonary resection which remain significant.Despite the improvements in surgical techniques and perioperative patient management, postoperative cardiopulmonary complications still occur in 20%-30% of lung cancer surgical patients. Patients undergoing thoracotomy for lung carcinoma present a uniquely high risk group for pulmonary complications in particular. Histories of heavy smoking, chronic lung disease, coexisting medical conditions, and the nature of the procedure contribute. The spectrum of pulmonary complications may range from atelectasis and pneumonia to acute lung injury, with the most severe form being acute respiratory distress syndrome. This review was undertaken to evaluate and discuss major complications in patients undergoing thoracotomy for lung cancer.