Operative Risks
With COPD, you could have a pulmonary problem during your procedure.
Operative pulmonary issues associated with COPD can cause a respiratory emergency or may be life-threatening.
Your lung and heart function will be closely monitored during your procedure.
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Most problems can be detected and managed immediately.
This is more difficult when you have COPD.
Considerations
Identifying risks early in the preoperative period starts with a thorough history and physical examination.
With COPD, your pre-operative planning includes additional tests that evaluate respiratory function.
This will increase your tolerance for anesthesia and help prevent common post-surgical issues, such as pneumonia.
This could mean that you would only have a short procedure.
COPD can lead to prolonged recovery, and issues can arise days or weeks after surgery.
You may have your breathing, heart rate, oxygen level, and carbon dioxide monitored.
You may also need care for your wound or suture removal.
Your medical team will tell you how to keep it clean and protected as it heals.
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