A lung surgery clinic is a specialised facility where doctors help with surgical procedures for the lungs. Read more: https://www.icts.com.sg/robotic-thoracic-surgery-in-singapore-a-new-era-of-care-for-patients/.
When visiting lung surgery clinic, you will most likely meet a thoracic surgeon who will assess you for lung-related concerns. Depending on your situation, they may recommend specialised treatments like surgery.
The most common situations that may warrant a referral to a lung surgery clinic includes if your imaging results or symptoms suggest something like a nodule, persistent lung disease or possible cancer. Since lung surgery is complex and too important to rush into, the first meeting at the lung surgery clinic gives you and the surgeon time to look at your health, medical history and scans.
After the initial assessment, you can begin to work on a plan that fits your needs. On this page, we will show you what to bring to a lung surgery consultation and questions to ask your doctor among other basics. Let’s begin!
What to Pack for Lung Surgery Clinic Consultation?
When going for a lung surgery clinic consultation, what you pack-up actually matters more than you might expect. If you’re wondering what to pack for a lung surgery clinic consultation here’s what to keep in mind;
Start with the essentials. Bring photo ID, your insurance or hospital card and payment method if needed.
These details will help with reception and administration. It will also help to include a full list of your medications including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements with dosages and timing. At the facility, the team will explain what to continue or stop before surgery.
Also, add copies of any recent imaging (like CT scans), blood results, ECG or lung function tests, if you’ve had them. It is important that you have these on hand because they make it easy for the surgeon and anaesthetist to review your health in depth and tailor the plan to you.
Pack comfort too for a consultation you might not need to stay in hospital. This will help if they admit you as you’ll be ready.
It may also help to carry a note-book and pen as these will you write questions or record advice during what can be information-rich appointments. You could pack a water bottle, any inhalers you use, and perhaps a friend or family member to help remember things and ask questions. Keep valuables minimal.
What Questions should I Ask before Lung Surgery?
The first visit to a lung surgery clinic may be uneasy on you but it is important that you have a good understanding of what to expect. So, you might wonder; what questions should I ask before lung surgery? Here are five examples;
- What exact surgery will you perform and why? Ask what type of operation you’ll have such as lobectomy, segmentectomy or pneumonectomy and why it’s best for you. We recommend asking this question because it helps you know the reason for the procedure so you can weigh benefits and impacts on your breathing and overall comfort.
- Will this be minimally invasive or open surgery? Find out if the procedure is done through small cuts using VATS or robotics, or via a larger open incision. Minimally invasive options often mean less pain and faster recovery. All these details are worth knowing plainly ahead of time.
- How many of these surgeries have you done? You do not want to be treated by an unskilled provider. So, feel free to ask about the surgeon’s experience with this specific lung surgery. A surgeon who does more procedures is more likely to handle complications better and plan more effectively.
- What are the risks and how will I recover? There isn’t a single procedure that is 100 percent risk free even in the most skilled hands. So be sure to request a clear picture of potential complications as well as what to expect after surgery like hospital stay, pain, breathing help, tubes, and activity limitations. That helps you know what your recovery might feel like.
- What support will I need at home? Acknowledge that recovery doesn’t end at discharge. Ask if you’ll need physiotherapy, pulmonary rehab, help managing drains or breathing exercises. With this information, it will be easy to prepare both you and anyone supporting you at home.
How to Prepare Physically, Mentally and Emotionally for your Appointment at the Lung Surgery Clinic
If you’ve read this far, you surely now understand that an appointment at a lung surgery clinic is more than a check-up. You should basically view it as a planning meeting where you and the surgeon weigh option and risks. That said, here are seven easy tips to prepare physically mentally and emotionally for your appointment at the lung surgery clinic;
- Optimise your body’s readiness: Follow up on any blood tests, scans or lung function assessments. If you smoke or drink, seek help to quit smoking well in advance and avoid alcohol. This will make it easier for your surgeon to understand your health profile and reduce risks during and after surgery.
- Nourish and hydrate: Stick to a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamin C and zinc. Drink plenty of water unless told otherwise. Proper nutrition and hydration do not only help with healing. It also shows you’re serious about preparing for whatever comes next.
- Lean on your support network: Talk through your concerns with a trusted friend or family member. Join a support group if you feel unsure. If you’re looking to create a calm routine, consider pausing throughout the day for deep breaths or mindful breaks. You can short walks, read something comforting, or listen to gentle music.
- Prepare practical questions: Write down what you want to ask the surgeon. These can be questions about risks, scar size, and recovery steps etc. Keep your list handy and update it as you think of more. While at that, it will also help to arrange your recovery space. Plan how you’ll rest if needed afterward
In Closing
We get it; preparing for a lung surgery clinic appointment can feel overwhelming. We hope this quick guide helps you arrive informed and calm. A little preparation can be all you need to ensure you and your surgeon are well placed to make clearer, safer decisions about treatment. So, do not take anything for granted.
If you’re in Singapore, book your consultation at our lung surgery clinic today and get personalised care from experienced thoracic surgeons. Call now or visit our facilities at any of these locations;
International Center for Thoracic Surgery in Singapore | Dr. Aneez
Mt Elizabeth Novena
38 Irrawaddy Road #10-38
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
Singapore 329563
+65 6591 8801
+65 8875 0389
Mt Alvernia
Mount Alvernia Hospital
820 Thomson Road
Medical Centre D
#06-70 S574623
+65 6255 5633
+65 8875 0389
Farrer Park Hospital
1 Farrer Park Station Road #15-06/07
Connexion Singapore 217562
+65 8082 1366
