Topographic, anatomical and functional post-surgery chest abnormalities

Abstract

Topographic and anatomical thoracic changes after pneumonectomy and lobectomy have been reviewed in this article including anatomic changes of the mediastinum, the diaphragm, the chest skeleton, operated and contralateral lungs. Results of Russian and foreign studies have been analyzed. This problem has been investigating more actively after wide implementation of computer tomography in the clinical practice. Certain trends in topographic and anatomical thoracic changes could be noted after pneumonectomy or lung resection. The most typical changes are the mediastinum displacement, diaphragm elevation and thoracic skeletal changes. A few data were published about quantitative postoperative changes. Current life-time imaging is able characterize postoperative changes quantitatively. 3D-modelling can comprehensively describe mechanisms of displacement of the heart, the tracheal bifurcation, the esophagus and large mediastinal vessels. Small number of studies precludes a detailed analysis of gender and constitutional differences and correlational analysis with post-operative ventilation changes. Thus, postoperative topographic and anatomical thoracic and abdominal changes after pulmonary surgery need further investigation.