Lung Cancer Surgery: An Overview of Treatment Options and What to Expect
Types of Lung Cancer Surgery
There are a few main types of lung cancer surgery depending on the location and size of the tumor. The goals of surgery are to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy lung tissue as possible.
Wedge Resection
For small tumors close to the edge of the lung, a wedge resection may be performed. During this surgery, the surgeon removes a wedge or slice of lung tissue around the tumor. This type of surgery is less invasive than others as it removes less lung tissue. It is usually done through open chest or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).
Lobectomy
A lobectomy involves removing one entire lobe of the lung (either the upper, middle or lower lobe). It is one of the most common types of lung cancer surgery done for early-stage tumors. A lobectomy provides a clear margin around the cancerous tissue for effective treatment. It requires general anesthesia and is usually performed through open chest or VATS.
Pneumonectomy
For larger tumors involving an entire lung lobe or those too close to major blood vessels, a pneumonectomy may be necessary. In this surgery, the entire lung is removed. It is a more complex surgery with a longer recovery time compared to other procedures. A pneumonectomy significantly reduces lung capacity and requires strong heart and lung health to tolerate.
Sleeve Resection or Bronchoplasty
Sometimes the tumor is located centrally in the main airways (bronchi) of the lung. In such cases, a sleeve resection or bronchoplasty may be performed. The surgeon removes the tumor along with a part of the airway and stitches the remaining healthy portions back together. This surgery aims to preserve maximum lung tissue while completely removing the cancer.
Preparing for Lung Cancer Surgery
After a discussion with your surgeon about the treatment plan, here are some steps to prepare for lung cancer surgery:
- Stop smoking completely as it increases risk of complications.
- Get medical tests like bloodwork, EKG, chest x-ray done as advised.
- Follow a high-protein diet and stay hydrated in weeks prior to gain strength.
- Arrange for help at home after discharge for initial recovery period.
- Discuss pain management options with your doctor.
- Understand all surgery and post-op care details by asking questions.
- Get vaccinations for pneumonia and influenza 4 weeks before if needed.
- Make travel arrangements if staying elsewhere during hospital stay.
What to Expect during Surgery
On the day of surgery:
- You will be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight prior.
- In the pre-op area, an IV line will be inserted and pre-medications given.
- Monitor leads and oxygen mask are attached in the operating room.
- General anesthesia puts you to sleep during the entire surgery.
- Surgery time ranges from 2-4 hours depending on the procedure.
- A tube may be placed in the chest after removal of lung sections to drain fluids.
- Stays 2-5 days in the hospital typically for monitoring and recovery.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Some important aspects after lung cancer surgery include:
- Breathing exercises and incentive spirometer use to expand lungs.
- Wound/staples care and prevention of infection or hernia.
- Pain management with oral or intravenous medications.
- Chest tube removal before discharge when drainage decreases.
- No heavy lifting, strenuous activity or driving until fully healed.
- Follow-up visits and tests to monitor healing and check for recurrence.
- Quit smoking 100% and vaccinations to prevent further illness.
- Supportive cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation as prescribed.
- Gradual return to normal routine over 6-8 weeks or more depending on health.
With advancements, lung cancer surgery has become much safer with short hospital stays and minimal side effects. Following doctor's instructions carefully helps maximize recovery from this life-changing treatment. Combined with other therapies, surgery remains key to curing early stage lung cancer or prolonging survival with metastatic disease.
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