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Pericardial Effusion and Pleural Effusion after surgery

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  • Pericardial Effusion and Pleural Effusion after surgery

    Hello:

    After my 2006 revision spinal surgery (T3-S1), I was discovered to have fluid in my right lung (Pleural Effusion) and also around my heart (Pericardial Effusion). Back in 2006 I had my lung drained 3 times and still had a small amount left - mostly scarring after one year. Same with the fluid around the heart. Still had about 100 cc's after one year.

    Recently I had a Chest CT Scan because I have been having severe shortness of breath and it was discovered my fluid in my right lung is increasing again along with the fluid around my heart. Just had a ECHO, EKG, and Blood Work done to see what is causing this.

    Has anyone else had problems with fluid in lungs and or heart after Spinal Surgery? Please let me know. Thanks.

  • #2
    Yes, I also had a pleural effusion after my spinal fusion; complication of my 5 rib thoracoplasty. I was informed by my surgeon that this could happen. I had 2 chest tubes including a VATS procedure. Has your surgeon told you why you still have fluid? I was told that any leftover fluid would be absorbed by the body. Have you seen a thoracic surgeon about your problem? Doesn't sound normal.

    I am having a follow up chest xray today. I too have some SOB but I think its due to my 5 broken ribs!

    I hope you find the answer to your problem soon. My best to you.
    Laurie
    Age 57
    Posterior fusion w/thoracoplasty T2-L3 Oct 1, 2010
    Thoracic curve corrected from 61* to 16*
    Lumbar curve, unknown measurement
    Disfiguring back hump GONE!!
    Dr Munish Gupta
    UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA

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