The Plan

Probably more information than anyone needs or wants...but here's what I know after yesterday's visit with the surgeon.

Dale will have two additional test on Thursday, Dec. 13:

1. Pulmonary Stress test: This test combines a regular stress test with a pulse oximeter to measure oxygen levels. This test will help determine what Dale's exercise capacity is, related heart or lung problems and determine the need for oxygen while exercising.

2. Radionuclide stress test

He will have a meeting with the anesthesiologist on Friday, Dec. 14.
He will also have his pre-op blood work after meeting with the anesthesiologist.
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Dale has an incentive spirometer to exercise his lungs pre-operatively and during recovery.

Dale's surgery will be Dec. 27th, time TBA.

Dr. Rice will first perform a medianstinoscopy and a fiber optic bronchoscopy.
Pathology reports will be attained immediately and after a clean path report on those lymph nodes, the VATS will proceed. Dale will have the upper lobe of his left lung removed (lobectomy).

Dale will be moved from surgery to a private room in the hospital. He will remain in the hospital for approximately 7 days. He will have two drain tubes in place for 3-4 days. Dale will have either an epidural or PCA for pain during his stay. He will have breathing treatments every 30 minutes during the day and every 2 hours during the night!

Melissa has reserved a hotel room at the Rotary House for the first three nights of Dale's hospital stay.

Dale will be discharged to either my house in Pearland or his house in Victoria depending on his recovery. Follow ups with Dr. Rice will be 4 weeks after surgery and then every 6 months.