An Overview of Lung Surgeries: Postoperative CT Findings and Complications

Abstract

There are various types of surgeries performed on the lungs, airways, pleura, and chest wall. As radiologists, it is imperative to understand the various surgeries, their expected post-operative imaging appearance and possible complications. The thoracic surgeries are broadly divided into two categories: open surgery and minimally invasive surgery. This article is a multi-modality review of open and minimally-invasive surgeries performed on the lung, pleura, trachea and chest wall. Computed tomography (CT) images, positron emission tomography (PET) images and radiographs, as well as intra-operative photographs and original illustrations of surgeries are provided to enhance understanding.