
 Pre PACES Podcast #119 REPOST: Lung surgery
 Aug 3, 2025 
 Dr. Aranthakrishnan Raghuram, a consultant respiratory physician and MRCP/PACES chair, shares insights on lung surgery techniques for PACES. He discusses why lung surgery is a frequent topic, the importance of interpreting surgical scars, and key bedside inspection essentials. Raghuram elaborates on recognizing different thoracic scars and emphasizing proper positioning during exams. He also covers the distinctions between lobectomy and pneumonectomy signs, as well as practical tips for auscultation and percussion techniques. 
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Think Beyond The Scar
- Always consider why a patient had thoracic surgery, not just that they had surgery.
 - Use clues from inspection and history to infer before, during and after care steps.
 
Use The Final Minute To Plan
- Finish the physical exam before you plan your answers and use the final minute to prepare your presentation.
 - Mentally rehearse likely questions during that last 45–60 seconds to avoid freezing under pressure.
 
Master The End-Of-Bed Inspection
- Start every respiratory station at the end of the bed and inspect before touching the patient.
 - Note oxygen, sputum pots, chest movement and tracheal position for early diagnostic clues.
 
