Thoracic Surgery · HeartCraft

Lung Tumor Surgery

Advanced, minimally invasive removal of lung tumors, planned around your scans, your lung health and a smoother recovery.

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Early detection
Precision surgery
Safe recovery
Lung-sparingSaves healthy lung wherever safe
Minimally invasiveSmall incisions, faster healing
Personal planBuilt around your diagnosis
Recovery supportCare from ward to follow-up
About the treatment

Understanding lung tumor surgery

Lung tumor surgery removes a growth from the lung, together with a margin of healthy tissue and, when needed, nearby lymph nodes. It is a main treatment for many early-stage lung cancers and is also used for some benign tumors and selected metastatic nodules.

  • Removes the tumor and checks the surrounding lymph nodes
  • Aims to keep as much healthy lung as safely possible
  • Often combined with chemotherapy, radiotherapy or targeted therapy
  • Planned after CT or PET-CT, biopsy and lung function tests
CT scan – nodule detected
See the result

Before and after surgery

The goal is complete removal of the tumor with clear margins, while the remaining lung continues to work for you. Tap below to see the idea.

Illustration for explanation only. The actual operation depends on your tumor.

Tumor present
Our procedures

Surgical options, matched to your tumor

The highlighted gold area shows what is removed in each operation.

Wedge Resection

A small wedge containing the tumor is removed. Suited to small tumors near the lung edge, or when lung reserve is limited.

Smallest lung removal

Segmentectomy

One anatomical segment of a lobe is removed, keeping more healthy lung while treating selected small tumors.

Lung-sparing

Lobectomy

An entire lobe is removed. This is the most common operation for early-stage lung cancer and gives thorough tumor clearance.

Most common

Pneumonectomy

The whole lung is removed. It is reserved for large or central tumors when no smaller operation can clear the disease safely.

For advanced tumors

Lymph Node Dissection

Chest lymph nodes are sampled or removed to confirm the exact stage and guide any further treatment.

Accurate staging

Sleeve Resection

The affected airway is removed and rejoined, which can avoid a full pneumonectomy for tumors involving the main bronchus.

Airway reconstruction
Surgical approach

Choosing how the operation is done

Wherever it is safe, surgery is done through small incisions to speed up recovery.

Small incisionsA camera and fine instruments pass through a few small cuts between the ribs.
Less pain, faster returnSmaller cuts and less rib spreading usually mean a more comfortable early recovery.
Safety comes firstIf needed for safety, the operation can be converted to open surgery.
Wider accessA larger incision gives direct view and reach for complex tumors.
For larger or central tumorsChosen when a tumor is big, near major vessels, or involves nearby structures.
Longer recoveryHealing usually takes longer, supported by strong pain control and physiotherapy.
Patient journey

Your treatment journey, step by step

ConsultationSymptoms review, CT or PET-CT scan and biopsy to confirm type and stage.
Fitness checkLung function, heart evaluation and blood tests to confirm you are fit for surgery.
SurgeryThe planned operation under general anaesthesia, usually lasting a few hours.
Hospital recoveryPain control, chest tube care, breathing exercises and early walking.
Follow-upPathology review, any added treatment and regular scans over the long term.
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Who needs lung tumor surgery?

Patients with early-stage lung cancer, some benign tumors and selected metastatic nodules may be advised surgery, if tests show they are fit enough to undergo it.

How long is the hospital stay?

It depends on the operation and your health. After minimally invasive surgery most patients stay a few days; open surgery may need longer.

Will I have trouble breathing afterwards?

Removing part of a lung can reduce capacity, but the remaining lung adapts. Breathing exercises and rehabilitation help you regain stamina.

Is more treatment needed after surgery?

Some patients need chemotherapy, radiotherapy or targeted therapy, depending on the final pathology report. Your surgeon will explain this.

When can I return to normal activities?

Light activity usually resumes within a few weeks, with full recovery taking longer. Your surgeon will guide you based on the procedure performed.

Worried about a lung nodule or tumor?

Get an expert opinion on your scans and learn which treatment is right for you.

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