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Lung Cancer Surgery
Surgery to remove cancer from the lung, offered when the tumour is confined and the patient is fit enough. It offers the best chance of cure in early-stage disease.
Causes & risk factors
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Second-hand smoke
- Air pollution
- Occupational exposures (asbestos, radon)
- Family history
Common symptoms
- Persistent cough
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- Breathlessness
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
Tests & diagnosis
- Chest X-ray
- CT scan of chest
- PET scan
- Biopsy / bronchoscopy
- Lung function tests
Treatment & management
- Removing part or all of the affected lung (lobectomy or pneumonectomy)
- Minimally invasive (keyhole / VATS) surgery where suitable
- Chemotherapy or radiotherapy before or after surgery
- Targeted therapy or immunotherapy in selected cases
- Stopping smoking and pulmonary rehabilitation
When to see a doctor urgently
- See a doctor promptly for a cough lasting more than three weeks or coughing up blood
- Call emergency services for sudden severe breathlessness or chest pain
- Get checked for unexplained weight loss with chest symptoms
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about lung cancer surgery. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Can you live with one lung?
Yes — many people manage well after removal of a lung, especially with rehabilitation.
Is keyhole lung surgery possible?
For many early cancers, minimally invasive surgery is possible, with faster recovery.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.