Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD is a medical condition where the patient has difficulties in breathing as the airways in the lungs become narrow or damaged.

COPD is often a result of smoking or exposure to air pollution, and it is more common among older people. Patients with COPD have to deal with daily breathing difficulties and lead a lifestyle where they have to stay away from triggers that worsen their condition. Surgeries, however, can pose a dangerous threat to the safety of such patients.

In this article, we will look at the risks and dangers of surgery for patients living with COPD.

The Risks of General Anesthesia on Patients with COPD

General anesthesia is one of the most dangerous aspects of surgery for patients with COPD. When a patient undergoes surgery, they are administered anesthesia to help them sleep and stay pain-free.

Patients with COPD have a weakened respiratory system, and anesthesia can lead to further damage. Anesthesia can cause the airways to narrow, which makes it difficult for the patient to breathe even after the surgery is over. The patient may require additional support with breathing post-surgery, or they may end up in prolonged post-op recovery.

In some cases, the patient may have to be placed on a ventilator for an extended period after surgery, which can lead to complications and further lung damage.

Infection Risks for Patients with COPD

People living with COPD are at an increased risk of lung infections. Infections can worsen the symptoms of COPD, further damaging the lungs and making it difficult for the patient to breathe.

During surgery, the patient’s immune system may weaken, leading to an increased risk of infection after surgery. Infections can also lead to fever, increased mucus production, and inflammation of the lungs, causing breathing difficulties. Patients with COPD are more vulnerable to infections like pneumonia, which can have serious consequences.

Blood Clot Risks for Patients with COPD

Surgery increases the risk of blood clots in all patients, but it is even more dangerous in patients living with COPD. Blood clots can travel to the lungs, block the blood flow, and cause pulmonary embolism.

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Patients with COPD are already dealing with the issue of limited airflow and reduced oxygen supply; blood clots can further reduce the oxygen supply to the lungs, leading to complications like shortness of breath, chest pain, and even death. Surgery increases the risk of blood clots because the patient is immobile and sedentary during the recovery period.

Increased Risk of Respiratory Failure

Respiratory failure can occur during or after surgery, leading to shortness of breath, low oxygen levels, and even life-threatening complications. Patients with COPD are already dealing with breathing difficulties and compromised respiratory function.

Surgery can further weaken their lungs, making it more likely for them to struggle with breathing. Anesthesia and post-operative pain medication can worsen the symptoms of COPD, leading to further respiratory distress. In some cases, patients with COPD may require a tracheostomy to help them breathe after surgery.

Increased Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke

Patients with COPD are at an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. During surgery, the body is put under a significant amount of stress, which can lead to complications like heart attacks or stroke.

Patients with COPD may already have a compromised cardiovascular system, which makes them more vulnerable to heart attacks during surgery. Surgery can also increase the risk of developing blood clots, which can lead to stroke, especially if they travel to the brain. Patients with COPD should be monitored closely post-surgery to manage their cardiovascular health.

Increased Mortality Rates for Patients with COPD

Patient mortality rates are higher for patients with COPD undergoing surgeries than for those without this medical condition. Patients with COPD are already compromised, and surgery puts additional stress on their bodies.

The risk of complications during surgery and the recovery period is higher for patients with COPD, leading to increased mortality rates. It is essential to discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with a healthcare professional and to explore alternative treatments to surgery if possible.

Conclusion

Surgery for patients with COPD is a risky proposition. Patients with COPD should work closely with a healthcare professional to assess the risks and benefits of surgery.

If surgery is deemed necessary, the patient should undergo careful pre-operative preparation, careful intra-operative management, and close post-operative monitoring. It is vital to take precautions to prevent any complications that could worsen the patient’s breathing difficulties and lung damage during and after the surgery. Alternative treatments to surgery should be explored whenever possible.