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Returning to work following surgery for a pneumothorax

Authoring team

 

Recommended return to non-manual work

Recommended return to manual work

Thoracoscopic surgical procedures including cervical sympathectomy, pulmonary resection and pneumothorax surgery

within 2 weeks

within 4 weeks

Thoracotomy with partial pneumonectomy

6 weeks

2 months

Thoracotomy with pneumonectomy

2-3 months

unlikely

Notes:

  • the information applies to general fitness to work for people below 60 years of age without other significant disability. This information is only a guide to doctors, who will need to consider the individual clinical circumstances when advising patients
  • multiple morbidities are likely to prolong recovery

Reference:

  • Samuel AM, Wellwood JMcK. Fitness for work after surgery. In Palmer KT, Cox RAF and Brown I. (Eds) Fitness for Work 4th edn. Oxford University Press, Oxford 2007 pp 467-486.
  • http://www.workingfit.com (accessed 3/9/2013)

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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