Posted by Roger Meyer on April 22, 2002 at 23:10:13:
In Reply to: Maze/ fluid in lungs? posted by Diane on April 22, 2002 at 19:15:23:
Diane
I had the Maze procedure in August 2001. At my first followup with my surgeon 10 days to two weeks after my discharge from the hospital a chest x-ray was taken and then a CAT scan of the chest was ordered. I was called back rather directly and told to be prepared for possible re-admission. It turned out I was not readmitted. I learned that pleural effusion (blood and lymph)had developed and was likely due to the chest tubes that had been inserted. It was my understanding that the fluid accumulation occurred between lung cavity membranes and was not inside the lungs. At a later time a second CAT scan was ordered, and then a third in late November. At that time I was informed that the effusion had reduced somewhat, and that in the pulmonologist's opinion I no longer needed to return for further follow-up. I got the impression that such fluid accumulation, while it had to be watched carefully, was not totally unusual. That entire chapter, however, was a surprise to me.
Roger