A 52-year-old member asked:
How long will i need to wait after a lung cancer lobectomy before going back to work?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. David Cookeanswered
Thoracic Surgery 24 years experience
Depends: It depends on what a patient does for a living, and what type of surgery they had. If someone had vats, then they should not lift anything > than 20lbs for 1 month. If they had a thoracotomy or "big cut" then no lifting > 20lbs for 2 months. If a patient's work requires driving or operating heavy machinery, then return after they are off narcotics. Otherwise return to work when comfortable.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Andrew Turrisianswered
Radiation Oncology 49 years experience
Usually 4-6 wks: But this question is always better answered by the surgeon that operated on your chest. They may have a very good reason to allow you back sooner, or keep you at rest longer. I can promise you they will not mind you asking them!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Brian Mott commented
Thoracic Surgery 31 years experience
Most of my patients go back to work after a VATS lobectomy by 1 month.
Aug 13, 2012
Similar questions
A 48-year-old member asked:
How soon after lung cancer lobectomy can I go back to work?
2 doctor answers • 6 doctors weighed in
Dr. Edward Goldanswered
Internal Medicine 46 years experience
It depends: It depends upon the type of surgery and whether there are any postoperative complications. Speak to your surgeon.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 14, 2019
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