Lower left lobectomy for bronchiectasis

[Schmu]

Hi group!

First of all, this group helps me so much! I get so much support by reading the posts of the positive and knowlegable members. Thanks guys.

Ok, now my question. I have bronchiectasis. My doctors have been recommending that I have a lower left lobectomy of my lungs. Would anyone want to share there recovery experience, cautionary tales, and successes with this procedure? Did your infections/exacerbations decrease?

I have been told that bronchiectasis lobectomies are more complicated due to the scaring and inflammation already in our lungs so I am worried.

I am 44. I had MAC in 2015 but other than that, I just have one infection on top of another.

It seems that I am having trouble using the search box to find others with my experience so maybe we can start a new thread.

Thanks!

Sarah

[cofdrop-UK]

Hi Schmu

I note you use a smart vest and so I am wondering if live in the States!

In the UK in the 60s lobectomy surgery was sometimes done when someone’s bronciectasis was diffuse but nowadays it is done when bronchiectasis is localised.

I had a left lower basal section lobectomy in 1963 when i was 15. They were then considering doing further surgery on the right but decided not to. I will not go into my experience as I don’t think it would be helpful, as it was open surgery in those days and a much ‘bigger deal’. I will only say that I have no idea if getting rid of the most severely affected area was actually positive or negative - I don’t evern think about it.

What I can tell you is I know of people on a different site who have had a lobectomy much more recently which was done using laprascope and the preparation, surgery and recovery were much shorter than in the past.

I hope someone comes along who have had surgery recently.

BTW have you had a second opinion that this is the best way to go for you.

Good luck

Cx

[Schmu in reply to cofdrop-UK]

Thanks! Yes, you remember me. I would have a VATS (less intrusive) surgery but thanks for sharing your experience. I am getting as many opinions as I can.

Have a good one,

Sarah