A Patient's Guide to Lung Surgery

Thoracotomy: To Family and Friends: Waiting During Surgery

The entire procedure, from preparation through surgery, may take 2 to 5 hours. Plan activities to help pass the time while you wait.

After surgery, your loved one will be taken to the recovery room or another monitoring unit. You may be able to visit within a couple of hours.

When you visit, be prepared to see your loved one surrounded by tubes and monitors. He or she may be groggy, pale, and puffy-looking. This is normal following major surgery.

The pain medications that help make your loved one more comfortable may also make him or her sleepy or confused.

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