What does pneumonectomy mean?
Pneumonectomy is a surgical operation to remove one or both lungs, typically performed to treat severe lung diseases such as lung cancer, tuberculosis, or emphysema. The procedure is often considered a last resort and carries significant risks, including respiratory failure. A pneumonectomy may be performed as a planned operation or as an emergency procedure to save a patient's life. The surgery is usually done under general anesthesia and requires a skilled thoracic surgeon. After the operation, patients require careful monitoring and rehabilitation to manage potential complications.
nounA surgical operation to remove a lung, typically performed to treat lung cancer or other severe lung diseases.
- A surgical operation to remove a lung
"The patient underwent a pneumonectomy to remove the cancerous lung tissue."
"The patient underwent a pneumonectomy to remove the cancerous lung tissue."
"Pneumonectomy is often considered a last resort for treating severe lung diseases."
countable, standard plural form
"The hospital performed several pneumonectomies last year."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of pneumonectomy
The term 'pneumonectomy' comes from the Greek words 'pneumon,' meaning lung, and 'ektome,' meaning removal or excision. The word has been used in medical contexts since the early 20th century.
How pneumonectomy is actually used
Formal or medical register; often used in discussions of oncology or thoracic surgery.