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Do Lungs Regrow After Surgery?

Published in Pulmonology 2 mins read

No, adult lungs generally do not regrow after surgery in the sense of regenerating new alveolar septal tissues.

While the lung possesses some capacity to adapt and compensate after a portion is removed (resection), it doesn't regenerate new lung tissue like some other organs. Postoperative pulmonary function depends largely on the amount of lung tissue that was removed during the surgery.

Factors Influencing Post-Surgery Lung Function

After lung surgery, several factors influence how well the remaining lung functions:

  • Amount of Lung Tissue Resected: The most significant factor is the quantity of lung tissue removed. A larger resection generally leads to a greater reduction in lung capacity and function.
  • Pre-existing Lung Conditions: Individuals with pre-existing conditions like COPD, emphysema, or pulmonary fibrosis may experience a more significant decline in lung function after surgery.
  • Age: Older individuals may have reduced lung elasticity and reserve, potentially impacting their recovery and long-term lung function after surgery.
  • Overall Health: General health status, including cardiovascular health and nutritional status, plays a crucial role in the recovery process.
  • Compensatory Mechanisms: The remaining lung tissue can undergo some degree of adaptation and expansion to compensate for the lost volume. This is not true regeneration, but rather structural and functional changes.

What Happens After Lung Resection?

Following lung resection, the remaining lung tissue may exhibit some changes:

  • Expansion: The remaining lung tissue can expand to fill the space left by the resected portion.
  • Increased Blood Flow: Blood flow may redistribute to the remaining lung tissue to maintain oxygenation.
  • Improved Efficiency: The remaining alveoli (air sacs) may become more efficient at gas exchange.

Important Consideration

It's important to differentiate between compensatory changes and true regeneration. While the lung can adapt and become more efficient, it doesn't regrow new alveoli or lung tissue in the same way that some other organs, like the liver, can regenerate.