Pulmonology

About the specialty

Pulmonology treats diseases of the respiratory system: lungs, airways, pleura and sleep-related breathing disorders.

The pulmonologist relies on clinical examination, chest imaging and lung function tests. Polycrabat Sevamed coordinates the pathway, including referral to thoracic surgery if it is needed.

Main conditions treated

• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Respiratory infections
• Lung nodules
• Pleural diseases
• Sleep apnoea

Tests, techniques and procedures

The techniques used and their indication are decided by the doctor, case by case. As a general guide:

• Respiratory clinical examination
• Chest X-ray and CT
• Lung function tests
• Bronchoscopy depending on the indication

The patient pathway

1. 01
   Consultation and assessmentReview of the file, symptoms and tests already performed.
2. 02
   Referral to a specialistChoice of the most appropriate discipline and doctor.
3. 03
   Additional testsLaboratory tests, imaging or investigations depending on the medical indication.
4. 04
   Treatment and careTreatment plan defined by the medical team.
5. 05
   Hospital stay if necessaryStay and monitoring when the patient’s condition requires it.
6. 06
   Follow-up and referring doctorRelevant information is sent to the doctor in the home country.

A multidisciplinary approach

The pulmonologist works with the radiologist, the thoracic surgeon, the oncologist and the intensive care team depending on the patient’s situation.

Health Info guides

Key facts to understand tests and treatments before discussing them with your doctor.

• Tuberculosis: diagnosis, treatment and follow-up until cure→
• Lung nodule: what assessment before deciding on treatment?→
• Pneumonia in children: recognising breathing difficulties→

All Health Info guides

See also

• Thoracic surgery→
• Medical imaging & radiology→
• Adult intensive care→
• Medical oncology→

International patients

Polycrabat Sevamed supports patients coming from abroad: file review, referral to a specialist, scheduling appointments, hospitalisation, coordination of the medical stay and continuity with the doctor in the home country.