How long does it take for heart rate to recover after lung surgery?
May 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
After lung surgery, heart rate generally returns to normal within one to two months. Lung surgery is usually performed using minimally invasive or open-chest techniques and is primarily indicated for individuals with conditions such as pulmonary bullae or lung tumors. Since the procedure may cause some damage to the lungs, affecting respiratory function, the body may compensate to meet its oxygen demands, which in turn can influence heart rate.
After lung surgery, heart rate generally returns to normal within one to two months. The specific analysis is as follows:
Lung surgery is usually performed either via minimally invasive techniques or open thoracotomy and is primarily indicated for individuals with conditions such as pulmonary bullae or lung tumors. During the surgical procedure, some degree of damage to the lungs typically occurs, which may affect respiratory function. To meet the body's oxygen demands, the heart rate may increase compensatorily to maintain stable oxygen levels. If the patient’s condition is mild with a small lesion area, resulting in limited lung damage, heart rate usually recovers within about one month after surgery. However, if the condition is more severe, requiring open thoracotomy with larger tissue trauma and more extensive disease, recovery of heart rate may take up to two months.
Patients are advised to closely monitor vital signs postoperatively, including body temperature and blood pressure. They should also pay attention to drainage from chest tubes to prevent significant fluid accumulation in the lungs, which could prolong recovery time.
