The prospect of being referred for any surgery can be extremely daunting. It is, of course, a huge
period in your life with the concerns and worries the prospect of it will inevitably bring. Having been
referred, there will be a full consultation to undertake a thorough medical history and examination.
We will then summarise and discuss your condition and the potential management options. After we
have decided together the best way of proceeding then we will go through the consent and you will
proceed with pre-assessment to ensure you are safe and ready to proceed with an operation.

Patients in our trust are frequently admitted the day before surgery to ensure you are settled and have
been admitted by nursing and medical teams and it will be made sure that everything is in place and
organised. It also gives another opportunity to go through any questions you might have and recap
the operation as you feel necessary. You will be seen by an anaesthetist.

Following the operation you will wake up in recovery where the team will be keeping a close eye on
you following your operation and anaesthetic. We will ensure you are settled and comfortable and
you will be transferred to the ward environment. It is important after thoracic surgery that you
mobilise early and keep as active as possible. Once you are feeling fit and ready for home, we will
ensure you are safely discharged with appropriate medications, if necessary, and plans for support if
you need any once you are home.

Following discharge from hospital, recovery continues and that will of course be very much
dependent on what surgery you have had and why. We will be there to support you with this and will
arrange review as and when you need it.