What is lung cancer surgery called?

Lung cancer surgery is generally referred to as pulmonary resection, and the specific procedures depend on the extent and location of the cancer. Common types of lung cancer surgeries include:

Types of Lung Cancer Surgery:

1. Lobectomy
   • Removal of an entire lobe of the lung.
   • Most common surgery for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) when the tumor is confined to one lobe.
2. Pneumonectomy
   • Removal of an entire lung.
   • Performed when cancer has spread extensively within one lung but is still localized.
3. Segmentectomy (Segmental Resection)
   • Removal of a segment of a lobe.
   • Used for smaller, early-stage cancers where a lobectomy may not be necessary.
4. Wedge Resection
   • Removal of a small, wedge-shaped portion of the lung containing the tumor.
   • Often done for early-stage cancers or for patients who cannot tolerate a lobectomy due to other health issues.
5. Sleeve Resection
   • Removal of a section of a bronchus (airway) along with the tumor, with reconnection of the remaining ends.
   • A lung-sparing alternative to a pneumonectomy.
6. Minimally Invasive Surgery
   • Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): A minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera.
   • Robot-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (RATS): Provides enhanced precision for tumor removal.
7. Thoracotomy
   • An open surgery involving a large incision in the chest to access the lungs.
   • Often performed when a more comprehensive operation is needed.

Goals of Lung Cancer Surgery:

• Curative: For early-stage cancers, to completely remove the tumor.
• Palliative: To relieve symptoms like airway obstruction or to improve quality of life in advanced stages.