Thoracic Oncology Program

Lung Cancer

Staging

One of the best indicators of the extent of cancer are the lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are tiny glands that help the body fight infection and tumor. The stage of cancer is determined by the size of the tumor and the number and location of enlarged lymph nodes. Accurate staging helps tailor treatment to your specific need.

Surgical staging involves several procedures - bronchoscopy, thoracoscopy, and mediastinoscopy. These procedures are performed during one operation and provide exact reports of the extent of your tumor and the number and location of lymph nodes that have been affected by cancer. Once you have fully recovered from the anesthesia, you will be discharged. Most patients are able to go home later the same day.

Bronchoscopy is a procedure that allows the surgeon to view your airway passages directly. After you are asleep, a fiberoptic scope is inserted into your airway through your mouth. The surgeon may take a biopsy (small piece of tissue) or brushings of any suspicious cells.
Mediastinoscopy uses the thoracoscope to examine and sample the lymph nodes inside the center of your chest. This is done through a small (approximately 1 inch) incision located at the base of your neck, just above your breastbone. The incision is closed with sutures, which will eventually dissolve. The pathologist will examine all tissue for cancer cells and any other abnormality.
Thoracoscopy or Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) to sample lymph node and search for evidence of tumor spread.

Risks & Potential Complications

There are few risks involved with this procedure. The main risks are bleeding, infection, and hoarseness. Complications are rare and mainly from general anesthesia.

Pain Control

Operations create pain. We make every effort to minimize your discomfort through oral medications and IV medications. You will be asked frequently about your pain. Please be honest. It is very important for the pain to be under control because taking deep breaths and moving are essential for quick recovery.

Oral medications are most often given on an "as needed" schedule. This means that you must ask the nurse to give you the medicine. Usually, there is a 4 hour interval between doses. Please let your nurse know if you need your medicine more frequently or if it makes you too sleepy.

Activity

Walking and moving frequently are very important components of your recovery. The more you push yourself to exercise and move, the quicker and less painful your recovery will be. You may not feel up to moving, BUT YOU MUST.

Discharge

You will go home after you have fully recovered from anesthesia. Remember to check you incision for any swelling or drainage. If you feel feverish or have chills, take your temperature. It is normal for your incision to swell somewhat, but if you notice increased redness, drainage, a fever, or difficulty breathing, call the office.

This page was last updated on: March 3, 2008.