Lung Cancer Surgery
Lung cancer surgery is one of several treatment options that may be considered for selected patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The most appropriate treatment approach depends on a range of factors, including the type of lung cancer, tumour location, stage of disease, overall health, and individual patient circumstances.
Professor Christopher Cao is an experienced Sydney thoracic surgeon with a particular interest in lung cancer surgery, robotic thoracic surgery, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. He works closely with patients, respiratory physicians, oncologists and multidisciplinary teams to develop individualised treatment plans based on current evidence and best practice.
When Is Surgery Considered For Lung Cancer?
The suitability of surgery depends on several factors, including:
Every patient is different, and treatment recommendations are tailored to the individual.
Types Of Lung Cancer Surgery
Lobectomy
A lobectomy involves removing one of the lobes of the lung containing the cancer. This is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures for lung cancer and may be considered for selected patients with localised disease.
Segmentectomy
A segmentectomy removes a smaller portion of the lung while preserving as much healthy lung tissue as possible. This approach may be considered in selected circumstances.
Wedge Resection
A wedge resection involves removing a small section of lung tissue containing the tumour together with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue.
Pneumonectomy
In some situations, removal of an entire lung may be required. The most appropriate procedure depends on the characteristics of the cancer and the individual patient’s circumstances.
Lung Cancer Surgery Techniques
Robotic Lung Cancer Surgery
Advances in surgical technology have expanded the range of minimally invasive techniques available for treating lung cancer. Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery may be considered for selected patients requiring lung cancer surgery. Using specialised robotic technology, procedures can be performed through small incisions while providing enhanced visualisation and instrument control within the chest cavity.Potential benefits of robotic-assisted surgery may include:
- Smaller incisions
- Reduced tissue disruption
- Less post-operative discomfort
- Shorter hospital stay
- Earlier return to normal activities
Minimally Invasive Lung Cancer Surgery
Where appropriate, lung cancer surgery may be performed using minimally invasive techniques such as robotic-assisted thoracic surgery or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). These approaches aim to minimise surgical trauma while maintaining the principles of safe and effective cancer surgery.The most appropriate surgical technique depends on:
- Tumour location
- Cancer stage
- Patient anatomy
- Previous surgery
- Overall health
What To Expect During Treatment
Initial Consultation
A detailed assessment is undertaken to review symptoms, imaging studies, pathology results and previous investigations.
Diagnostic Investigations
Additional investigations may include CT scans, PET scans, pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy, blood tests and cardiac assessment.
Multidisciplinary Review
Many lung cancer cases are reviewed by a multidisciplinary team to ensure treatment recommendations reflect current evidence and best practice.
Surgical Planning
The proposed procedure, expected recovery process, potential risks and treatment alternatives are discussed in detail.
Surgery
Lung cancer surgery is performed in hospital under general anaesthesia using the most appropriate surgical approach.
Recovery And Follow-Up
Patients receive ongoing follow-up care and monitoring following surgery. Recovery times vary depending on the procedure performed and individual patient factors.
Potential Benefits Of Surgical Treatment
Potential goals of surgery may include:
- Removal of cancerous tissue
- Disease control
- Symptom management
- Supporting long-term treatment plans
Treatment outcomes vary between individuals and depend on many clinical factors.
Why Choose A Surgeon With Experience In Lung Cancer Surgery?
Professor Christopher Cao has extensive experience in thoracic surgery and minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted lung surgery. He is actively involved in clinical research, education and innovation within the field of thoracic surgery.
His affiliations with leading hospitals, academic institutions and research organisations reflect an ongoing commitment to evidence-based patient care.
Lung Cancer Surgery Research
Professor Cao has contributed extensively to international research examining lung cancer surgery, robotic-assisted pulmonary resection, minimally invasive techniques and surgical outcomes.
Featured Research by Professor Christopher Cao
Robotic Anatomical Pulmonary Resections: An Australian Experience
This publication documents Australia's largest reported experience with robotic anatomical pulmonary resections, contributing important evidence regarding robotic lung cancer surgery.
Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery Versus Open Thoracotomy for Lung Cancer
A landmark systematic review comparing minimally invasive thoracic surgery with traditional open surgery for resectable lung cancer.
Complications of Robotic Lung Resection Compared With Open Surgery
This meta-analysis examined outcomes following robotic lung resection for non-small cell lung cancer, demonstrating favourable peri-operative outcomes in appropriately selected patients.
Professor Cao has authored and contributed to numerous peer-reviewed publications relating to thoracic surgery, minimally invasive techniques and lung cancer treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Thoracic Surgery Services
Discuss Your Lung Cancer Treatment Options
If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer and would like to understand the treatment options available, including whether surgery may be appropriate for your circumstances, Professor Christopher Cao welcomes referrals from medical practitioners and enquiries from patients seeking specialist assessment.
Contact Professor Christopher Cao
