Lung Cancer Surgery
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Lung Cancer Surgery
Lung cancer surgery is one of the primary treatment options for patients with early-stage lung cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove cancerous tissue and prevent the disease from spreading. In some cases, surgery may be combined with other treatments like chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy for better outcomes.
When is Lung Cancer Surgery Needed?
Surgery is typically recommended for patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) when the tumor is confined to the lung and has not spread to other organs. It may also be considered for select patients with limited spread to nearby lymph nodes. However, surgery is not usually an option for small cell lung cancer (SCLC) since this type tends to spread more aggressively. Having said that, the field of management is every-changing and more patients with advanced lung cancer may also benefit from surgery.
Your doctor will assess your lung function, overall health, and the extent of the cancer before recommending surgery.
Types of Lung Cancer Surgery
The type of surgery depends on the tumor size, location, and how much lung tissue needs to be removed. Common lung cancer surgeries include:
Segmentectomy/Wedge Resection
This surgery removes a smaller portion of the lung rather than an entire lobe. It is usually performed when the tumour is small, and the patient has reduced lung function, making a lobectomy too risky. Since smaller and early-stage lung cancers require less lung resection, early detection is crucial for preserving lung function and improving treatment outcomes.
Lobectomy
Lobectomy is the most common lung cancer surgery, where an entire lobe of the lung is removed. The lungs have three lobes on the right and two lobes on the left. If the cancer is localised to one lobe, removing the affected lobe helps prevent further spread.
Pneumonectomy
A pneumonectomy involves removing an entire lung when cancer is large or located near the lung’s center. This procedure is only done when necessary, as it significantly affects breathing.
How to Prepare for Lung Cancer Surgery
Before surgery, your doctor will conduct several tests to evaluate your overall health and lung function. These may include:
- CT scans and PET scans to assess cancer size and spread.
- Lung function tests to determine if you can tolerate lung tissue removal.
- Blood tests and heart evaluations to ensure you are fit for surgery.
Your doctor may also advise lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a nutritious diet, and performing breathing exercises to improve recovery.
What to Expect During Lung Cancer Surgery
Lung cancer surgery is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep throughout the procedure. The type of surgery used will depend on the size, location, and stage of the tumor, as well as your overall health.
Open Surgery (Thoracotomy)
A thoracotomy is a traditional open surgery that requires a larger incision along the chest to access the lungs. The surgeon spreads the ribs to remove the affected lung tissue. This method is typically used for larger tumors or cases where minimally invasive techniques are not suitable. Recovery time is usually longer compared to minimally invasive procedures. At O2 Lung Centre, this approach is rarely used due to our surgeons’ extensive experience with minimally invasive techniques.
Minimally invasive lung cancer surgery involves smaller incisions and specialised instruments, leading to less pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays compared to open surgery. There are two main types:
- Single-Port VATS
Single-port VATS is a technique that requires only one small incision, rather than the three incisions used in traditional VATS. This reduces post-operative pain, leads to a faster recovery, and improves cosmetic outcomes. Despite being less invasive, single-port VATS still allows for effective removal of lung tumors with the same level of precision as traditional VATS. At O2 Lung Centre, more than 95% of lung cancer surgeries are performed via single port VATS. - Traditional Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)
Traditional VATS uses three small incisions in the chest. A tiny camera (thoracoscope) is inserted through one incision, while surgical instruments are used through the other two. This method allows for precise removal of lung tissue with minimal trauma to the body.
Recovery After Lung Cancer Surgery
Recovery time varies based on the type of surgery and individual health. After surgery, patients may experience:
- Pain and discomfort, which can be managed with medication.
- Shortness of breath, as the lungs adjust to the changes.
- Fatigue, which gradually improves over weeks to months.
Most patients stay in the hospital for a few days to a week, depending on their condition. Full recovery can take several weeks to months, with pulmonary rehabilitation and breathing exercises playing an essential role in regaining lung function. The doctors may refer patients to a specialised lung physiotherapist for lung function rehabilitation.
Risks and Complications of Lung Cancer Surgery
As with any major surgery, lung cancer surgery carries some risks, including:
- Infections at the surgical site.
- Bleeding or blood clots.
- Pneumonia or lung infections.
- Difficulty breathing due to reduced lung capacity.
Your doctor will discuss these risks with you and take necessary precautions to minimize complications.
Lung Cancer Surgery in Singapore
At O2 Lung Centre, our experienced cardiothoracic surgeons specialise in Single-Port VATS, offering minimally invasive options for lung cancer treatment. We are committed to providing personalized, high-quality care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients. If you or a loved one requires lung cancer surgery, reach out to us today to schedule a consultation. Let our expert team guide you through your treatment journey with precision and care.