A Patient's Guide to Lung Surgery

Preparing for Thoracoscopy

Thoracoscopy is often used to repair a collapsed lung; to examine, biopsy, and stage a mass in the lung; or to drain fluid from around the lungs. During thoracoscopy, your surgeon can look into your chest and perform procedures through small incisions in the chest wall. If a thoracoscopy can't be continued, a thoracotomy (open procedure) may be necessary.

Preparing for Your Surgery

• Ask your doctor any questions you have about the procedure.
• Have blood tests or other routine tests that your doctor orders.
• If you smoke, stop immediately.
• Tell your doctor about any medications you're taking (including aspirin), and ask if you should stop them.
• Don't eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
• Be sure to arrive at the hospital on time the day of your surgery.

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