lobectomy /lōbek″təmē/ [Gk, lobos + ektomē, excision] , the surgical excision of one or more lobes of a lung. It is performed to remove a malignant tumor or large benign tumor and to treat uncontrolled bronchiectasis, trauma with hemorrhage, congenital anomalies, or intractable tuberculosis. Any respiratory infection is cleared before surgery. Administration of antibiotics is begun, and the patient receives a general anesthetic. The chest cavity is entered through a long back-to-front incision (thoracotomy), and the diseased lobe is removed. A large-caliber tube remains in the wound and is connected to a water-sealed drainage system. Oxygen is given after surgery. Vital signs are closely monitored, and deep breathing is encouraged. Blood transfusion may be given, and IV fluids are continued. Pain medication is given. Care is taken that the chest tube remain patent and that the drainage system is sealed and functional. The chest tube is removed 2 to 3 days after surgery. Some compensatory emphysema is expected as the remaining lung tissue overexpands to fill the new space. −lobectomize, v.
