Question:
My surgeon is requiring a consult with Pulmonologist--should I worry?

I have asthma and although my chest xray showed no sign of disease, my pulmonary function tests did, stating mild obstruction. I used to smoke, but have quit over 5 years. Now my surgeon is requiring a consult with pulmonologist. Is this gonna effect the decision of my doctor to perform the surgery? I already have a date and am in relatively good health besides the asthma. I am afraid that this will make me ineligible for surgery. Help! Can anyone put my mind at ease?    — Lisa N. (posted on May 14, 2000)

May 14, 2000
ok settle down mid-night! As a nuse let me tell ya it's very common to be "cleared" lung wise pre-op and even more so knowing you have a history with your lungs.Sounds like ya have nothing to worry about relax and take a deep breath: it's a fun ride!
   — TJ J.

May 14, 2000
Hi. I had pulmonary function studies and arterial blood gases drawn. I did not have asthma, but i had COPD from smoking for 23 years. I was still smoking the day before the surgery. Bad idea. I do not smoke now and have not for over 7 months, since the surgery. The doctors checked my pulmonary function to make sure I had enough lung clearance for surgery. As it was, I just barely had enough. I had atelectasis and pneumonia post surgery. Very bad. But I am fine now. LOL Beth.
   — Elizabeth H.

May 15, 2000
Lisa, I wouldn't worry if I were you. I was also sent to a pulmonologist to check my lungs out as well as to decide if I had sleep apnea (which I did). My understanding is that the information from the pulmonologist is used by the anesthesiologist to help your operation, not to exclude you from it! My opinion is to have all the tests they want you to have so the Drs. will be up on your lungs, heart, whatever, and they can adjust their routine for your specific needs during the operation. They are there to make sure you have a safe surgery:) Good Luck!
   — M B.