Patient-Reported Outcomes in Thoracic Surgery

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) provide critical insight into recovery and survivorship after thoracic surgery. This article outlines a framework for implementing PROs for thoracic surgery patients, from preoperative baseline assessment through perioperative monitoring and long-term follow-up. Emphasis is placed on lung and esophageal surgery, where symptom burden and functional impairment significantly influence quality of life and overall outcomes. Integration of PROs into routine clinical workflows supports shared decision-making, guides perioperative management, and enables patient-centered assessment of surgical value and quality improvement.