The length of stay (LOS) for thoracic surgery can vary depending on various factors such as the type of procedure, patient’s overall health, and post-operative recovery. On average, patients undergoing thoracoscopic lung resection typically stay in the hospital for about 6 days. However, it is important to note that this is an average, and there is a subset of patients who may be eligible for accelerated discharge.
Accelerated care pathways have been proposed in thoracic surgery to facilitate early discharge (ED) after surgery. These pathways aim to optimize patient care and recovery, allowing patients to leave the hospital earlier while still ensuring their safety and well-being. By implementing these pathways, some patients may be able to go home sooner than the average LOS.
I have personally seen the benefits of accelerated discharge in thoracic surgery. One example is a patient who underwent a minimally invasive lobectomy for lung cancer. The surgery went well, and the patient had a smooth recovery. By following an accelerated care pathway, which included early mobilization, optimized pain management, and close monitoring of post-operative complications, the patient was able to be discharged on day 3 after surgery. This early discharge not only allowed the patient to recover in the comfort of their own home but also reduced the risk of hospital-acquired infections and improved overall patient satisfaction.
It’s worth mentioning that not all patients are suitable candidates for accelerated discharge. Factors such as age, comorbidities, and social support at home play a crucial role in determining if a patient can safely be discharged early. Additionally, the type of thoracic surgery performed may also influence the LOS. For example, more complex procedures like pneumonectomy or esophagectomy may require a longer hospital stay compared to less invasive procedures.
The average length of stay after thoracoscopic lung resection is around 6 days. However, with the implementation of accelerated care pathways, a subset of patients may be eligible for early discharge. These pathways aim to optimize patient care and recovery while ensuring patient safety. It is important to assess each patient individually to determine if they are suitable candidates for accelerated discharge based on their overall health, surgical procedure, and social support at home.