|  | Cancer | Lung Cancer

Risk Factors of Lung Cancer Surgery

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Surgery is a treatment option for the disease, but it does pose some risks.

  1. Significance

    • Typically, thoracic surgeons use the most minimally invasive type of surgery, to decrease the likelihood of adverse surgical effects.

    Types

    • The most common types of lung cancer surgery are posterolateral thoracotomies---or incisions made into the chest through the fifth and seventh ribs---and muscle-sparing incisions, which are less invasive and allow quicker recovery time. Occasionally, an entire lung is removed.

    Post-Operation Symptoms

    • After your surgery, it will be more difficult for you to breathe at first, but this will improve over time. It is also possible to develop pain in your shoulder or arms, which can be treated through physical and occupational therapy.

    Time Frame

    • You will most likely remain in the hospital for three or four days for observation, which helps cut reduced the risks associated with lung cancer surgery.

    Risks

    • Uncontrollable bleeding and bacterial infections are the major, life-threatening risks of lung cancer surgery. Rarely, patients experience allergic reactions to general anesthesia, causing hypothermia, respiratory difficulties and even death.

Lung Cancer - Related Articles