Lung Cancer
Lung cancer develops due to the uncontrolled and abnormal growth and division of cells in the lungs. In its early stages, this cancer often presents no symptoms, but as it progresses, symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, weight loss, and fatigue may occur. Small cell lung cancer, in particular, is known for its rapid growth and tendency to spread early.
At Liv Hospital, we conduct advanced cancer surgeries using state-of-the-art equipment in our meticulously equipped operating rooms.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
- Persistent cough
- Hemoptysis (coughing up blood)
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bone pain
- Headache
- Unexplained fatigue
Stages of Lung Cancer
Stage 0: Cancer cells are confined to the upper layer of the lung or bronchus without spreading to other parts of the lungs or beyond.
Stage I: Cancer cells remain localized within the lungs without spreading to nearby lymph nodes. Symptoms at this early stage may include a persistent cough, sputum production, mild shortness of breath, chest pain, bloody sputum, weight loss, and fatigue.
Stage II: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes within the lung or there are multiple tumors within the same lobe of the lung.
Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other structures within the chest, or there are multiple tumors in different lobes of the same lung. Symptoms typically include severe shortness of breath, intense pain, frequent lung infections, weakness, and weight loss, though they can vary.
Stage IV: Symptoms of stage 4 lung cancer may include severe shortness of breath, intense pain, frequent pneumonia or lung infections, weakness, and weight loss, often due to metastases spreading to both lungs, the pleura (fluid around the lungs), pericardium (fluid around the heart), or distant organs.
Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
The methods used in diagnosing lung cancer include:
Radiological examinations
- Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray provides a quick and initial view of the lungs to detect abnormalities such as masses or nodules that may indicate lung cancer.
- Computed Tomography (CT): Computed Tomography offers detailed cross-sectional images of the lungs, enabling precise evaluation of tumor size, location, and spread within the chest cavity.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Magnetic Resonance Imaging uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of lung tissues, useful for assessing tumors and detecting metastases in certain cases.
- PET/CT: Positron Emission Tomography combined with Computed Tomography (PET/CT) provides functional and anatomical information, highlighting areas of increased metabolic activity that may signify cancerous growths in the lungs and other parts of the body.
- Bone Scintigraphy: Bone scintigraphy involves injecting a radioactive tracer into the bloodstream to detect areas of abnormal bone metabolism, aiding in the detection of bone metastases in patients with lung cancer.
- Sputum Cytology: Sputum cytology involves analyzing mucus coughed up from the lungs to detect abnormal cells that may indicate lung cancer, providing a non-invasive diagnostic approach.
- Bronchoscopy: Bronchoscopy is a procedure where a flexible tube with a light and camera is inserted through the nose or mouth into the lungs, allowing direct visualization of the airways and collection of tissue samples for biopsy to diagnose lung cancer.
- Needle Aspiration: Needle aspiration involves using a thin needle to extract cells or fluid from abnormal areas in the lung, providing diagnostic information for lung cancer.
- Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid buildup (pleural effusion) from the space between the lungs and chest wall, which can be analyzed to diagnose lung cancer or other conditions affecting the lungs.
- Thoracotomy: Thoracotomy is a surgical procedure where an incision is made into the chest wall to access the lungs for biopsy or surgical treatment of lung cancer.
Treatment of Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer Surgery
If the cancer remains localized within the lung without spreading elsewhere, surgery may be considered. Your doctor may perform a surgical procedure to remove the lung cancer along with surrounding healthy tissue.
- Segmentectomy: Segmentectomy involves the removal of a smaller portion (segment) of the lung affected by cancer, preserving more healthy lung tissue compared to a lobectomy or pneumonectomy.
- Lobectomy: A lobectomy involves the surgical removal of one lobe of the lung affected by cancer, aiming to eliminate the tumor while preserving lung function.
- Pneumonectomy: Pneumonectomy is the complete removal of an entire lung affected by cancer, often necessary when the tumor is large or involves the main bronchus.
Surgery Methods
Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): Minimally invasive surgery where small incisions are made in the chest to insert a thoracoscope and surgical instruments, allowing the surgeon to view and remove the cancerous tissue with enhanced precision. One of the advantages of these minimally invasive methods is enhanced recovery after surgery. Patients might be discharged from the hospital in a couple of days.
Robotic Thoracic Surgery (Da Vinci): Robotic surgery using advanced robotic arms controlled by the surgeon to perform precise movements for removing lung cancer, offering improved dexterity and visibility compared to traditional methods. The robotic lung surgery is the upmost of all surgical procedures.
Thoracotomy: Traditional open surgery where a larger incision is made in the chest to directly access and remove the lung cancer and affected tissue.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to target and kill rapidly dividing cancer cells throughout the body, including those in the lungs affected by lung cancer.
Artificial Intelligence-Assisted
At Liv Hospital, artificial intelligence-assisted applications enhance efficiency and improve treatment success in chemotherapy, ensuring advanced care and outcomes for patients
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy works by boosting the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells specifically, helping to enhance the immune response against lung cancer.
Radiation
Radiation oncology uses high-energy radiation beams to precisely target and destroy cancer cells in the lungs, either as a primary treatment or in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy to treat lung cancer effectively.
Our Multidiscipliner Approach
At Liv Hospital, our approach to diagnosing and treating cancer involves a collaborative decision-making process within the Tumor Council. This council, composed of specialists from various fields, ensures that each case is evaluated from a multidisciplinary perspective. Treatment protocols are determined through consensus among these experts, guaranteeing a holistic and comprehensive approach to patient care.
Individualized Patient Care
Recognizing that every patient is unique, we meticulously evaluate all aspects of your condition at Liv Hospital. This includes your age, genetic profile, type and location of cancer, stage of disease progression, family history, current health status, and medical history. By considering these factors, we develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and circumstances, ensuring the most effective and personalized care for you.
Why Choose Liv Hospital for Lung Cancer Treatment?
- Experienced Physicians
- Hardware and Technology
- Multidisciplinary Approach
- Research & Development
- Support Services
- Quality Standards and Accreditation
- Patient-Centered Approach
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .
