1. What is the Post Op DLCO Calculator?

The Post Op DLCO Calculator estimates predicted postoperative diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) based on preoperative DLCO and the number of lung segments removed during surgery.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( \text{preoperative DLCO} \) — Baseline DLCO measurement before surgery (%)
• \( \text{segments removed} \) — Number of lung segments to be resected
• \( \text{total segments} \) — Total number of lung segments (typically 19)

Explanation: The equation estimates the remaining lung function after resection by accounting for the proportion of lung tissue removed.

3. Importance of ppoDLCO Calculation

Details: ppoDLCO is crucial for assessing surgical risk in lung resection patients. Values below 40% predict increased risk of postoperative complications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter preoperative DLCO (%), number of segments to be removed, and total segments (default 19). All values must be valid (DLCO > 0, segments removed ≤ total segments).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal DLCO value?
A: Normal DLCO is typically 75-140% of predicted, depending on age, sex, and height.

Q2: How many lung segments are there?
A: The right lung has 10 segments and the left has 8-9, totaling 18-19 segments.

Q3: When is ppoDLCO most useful?
A: For preoperative risk assessment in patients undergoing lung resection surgery.

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: It assumes uniform function across all segments and doesn't account for compensatory mechanisms.

Q5: What other calculations are important for lung resection?
A: ppoFEV1 and VO2 max are also important predictors of postoperative outcomes.