Over time, the lung becomes entrapped and breathing becomes difficult. Decortication surgery aims to remove this fibrous layer and allow the lung to expand, decrease breathing problems and other lung symptoms. When the peel is removed, the elasticity of the chest wall returns, and the lung can expand and deflate.

Why do you need a decortication?

The aim of decortication is to remove this layer and allow the lung to reexpand. When the peel is removed, compliance in the chest wall returns, the lung is able to expand and deflate, and patient symptoms improve rapidly.

What does lung decortication mean?

Decortication is a type of surgical procedure performed to remove a fibrous tissue that has abnormally formed on the surface of the lung, chest wall or diaphragm.