Advanced care for lung cancer.
Facing a lung cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but taking the first step toward treatment should not be. At Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery we make it easier for you to access advanced care with our heart and lung surgeons, state-of-the-art surgical techniques and a team that supports you every step of the way.
About Lung Cancer Surgery at NGPG
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, but early detection and leading surgical options offer hope for better outcomes. At NGPG our thoracic surgeons specialize in lung cancer surgery, offering personalized care to patients at all stages of the disease. From minimally invasive and robotic techniques to comprehensive treatment plans, our goal is to improve quality of life while delivering exceptional results.
What We Treat
Our team provides specialized care for lung conditions including:
- Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
- Metastatic Lung Cancer
What We Do
At NGPG our cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons provide surgical options tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Using minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, we are dedicated to delivering care that promotes faster recovery and optimal outcomes. Our surgical services include:
Robotic Navigational Ion Bronchoscopy
Robotic ion bronchoscopy allows our team to collect tissue samples from deep inside the lungs by using the body’s natural openings instead of making extra incisions. This makes the bronchoscopy safer, less painful and easier to recover from, while still giving very accurate results.
Pneumonectomy
Pneumonectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of an entire lung due to significant disease, such as advanced lung cancer or severe infection. This procedure is typically reserved for patients whose condition affects a single lung and cannot be treated with less invasive techniques.
Lobectomy
Lobectomy is the removal of one of the five lobes of the lungs and is one of the most common surgical treatments for lung cancer. At NGPG we utilize minimally invasive techniques, including video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted surgery, to reduce recovery time and improve surgical precision. This approach allows for the precise removal of diseased lung tissue while preserving healthy areas to maintain lung function.
Wedge Resection (Segmentectomy)
Wedge resection, also known as segmentectomy, involves removing a small, wedge-shaped portion of the lung affected by disease or damage. This procedure is ideal for early-stage lung cancer, benign tumors, or localized infections. By using advanced minimally invasive technology, our surgeons can perform this surgery with smaller incisions, reduced pain and quicker recovery times compared to traditional methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of lung cancer I should look out for?
Common symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, bloody sputum, unexplained weight loss and shortness of breath. Early-stage lung cancer often has no symptoms, so regular screenings are essential.
Does NGPG provide lung cancer screenings?
Yes, NGPG offers comprehensive lung cancer screening services to detect cancer early, especially for individuals at higher risk, such as those with a history of smoking or other risk factors. Early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment and better outcomes.
Who is a candidate for lung cancer surgery?
Candidates for lung cancer surgery are typically patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which accounts for 75–85% of all lung cancer cases. Surgery is often recommended if the cancer is localized and entirely resectable (removable via surgery). For some patients, surgery may be the only treatment necessary. Others may require additional therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation if the cancer has spread or cannot be fully removed surgically.
What is the success rate of lung cancer surgery?
Lung cancer surgery is most successful when the cancer is detected early, which is why regular screenings are crucial for those who meet the criteria. When surgery is performed for localized non-small cell lung cancer, the five-year survival rate is 65%. For regional lung cancer that has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, the five-year survival rate is 37%.
What is the recovery process like after lung cancer surgery?
Recovery from lung cancer surgery depends on the type of procedure performed and the patient’s overall health. Minimally invasive techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) or robotic-assisted surgery, can reduce recovery time and improve comfort. Patients are typically monitored closely in a specialized care unit after surgery and are provided with a personalized recovery plan that may include physical therapy, breathing exercises and follow-up appointments to ensure optimal healing and lung function.
Does NGPG participate in lung cancer research?
Yes, our Cancer Center participates in national research trials, working to improve long-term survival rates and treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients.