LUNG DISORDERS EXPERT FORUM
Diaphragmatic Paralysis

Diaphragmatic Paralysis

I had open heart surgery, 3 way bypass, in Feb 09. After spending 5 days in ICU, my right lung filled with fluid. I was continuously scolded for not breathing deeply. After taking a chest ex ray they drew the fluid off the lung allowing me to breath better.  After going home my blood o2 levels continuously dropped and I could only take short breaths. My lung doctor did many test and concluded I had a paralyzed right diaphragm with the right lung at partial capacity. The cat scan shows the diaphram just flapping as in a breeze. I am on o2 with exertion in my home and constant o2 when I leave my home. I can no longer work. I was extremly active before. I am a 56 years old female. This has changed my life as I knew it. My lung doctor told me they "knicked" the phrenic nerve. They also crushed the ulner nerve in my right arm. This has been surgically some what corrected last fall. I have heard of diaphragmatic plication. Would this help my breathing? I would love to be able to go some where without this tubing on my face, and backpack on my shoulder. It's not worth the trouble to even leave my house anymore.
Breathless in Louisiana
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