Which Factors Contribute to Postoperative Atelectasis?
The Main Risk Factors for Developing Atelectasis in the Surgical Patient Include: Age. Smoking. Use of General Anaesthesia. Duration of Surgery. Pre-Existing...
- Age.
- Smoking.
- Use of general anaesthesia.
- Duration of surgery.
- Pre-existing lung or neuromuscular disease.
- Prolonged bed rest (especially with limited position changes)
- Poor post-operative pain control (resulting in shallow breathing)
What is postoperative atelectasis?
Postoperative atelectasis: one of the most common post-operative complications (especially after chest or abdominal surgery); often occurs within 72 hours of surgery. Rounded atelectasis: folding of the atelectatic lung tissue (with fibrous bands and adhesions) to the. pleura.
How can atelectasis be prevented in a postoperative patient?
Deep breathing exercises and coughing after surgery can reduce your risk of developing atelectasis. If you smoke, you can lower your risk of developing the condition by quitting smoking before any operation.
Elena Rostova holds a Master's degree in Public Health Journalism. She covers groundbreaking medical research, holistic wellness trends, mental health awareness, and nutritional science.
