Decortication

IS A SURGICAL
PROCEDURE THAT
REMOVES A RESTRICTIVE
L AYER OF FIBROUS TISSUE
OVERLYING THE LUNG,
CHEST WALL, AND
DIAPHRAGM

Indications
Fibrothorax

Other conditions include:

The pleural peel has been present for more than

4-6 weeks
Lung symptoms are disabling
There is radiological evidence of a trapped lung

is performed under general

anaesthesia. It is a major thoracic

operation requiring a fullthoracotomy.
Nowadays this procedure can be
performed using thoracoscopy. All
fibrous tissue is removed from the
visceral pleural peel andpusis
subsequently drained from the pleural
space.

Insert clips

Contraindications
uncontrolled lung infection
coagulopathy
terminal diseases
Physiologically unfit
In some patients who also have

underlying lung disease, removal of the

peel may not help the lung expand and
thus surgery would be futile/pointless.

Nursing responsiblities : Preoperative Phase

Pre-Procedural Planning
Respiratory status
Routine pulmonary function

tests
Cardiac Workup
Diagnostic Imaging
Informed consent

Nursing Responsibilites: Postoperative Phase

P Preventing and/or relieving complications
O Optimal respiratory function
S Support: psychosocial well-being
T Tissue perfusion and cardiovascular status maintenance
O Observing and maintaining adequate fluid intake
P Promoting adequate nutrition and elimination
A Adequate fluid and electrolyte balance
R Renal function maintenance
E Encouraging activity and mobility within limits
T Thorough wound care for adequate wound healing
I Infection Control
V Vigilant to manifestations of anxiety and promoting

ways of relieving it
E Eliminating environmental hazards and promoting client
safety