Lobectomy: What it is and how it works

A lobectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing one of the lobes of the lung. The human lungs are divided into lobes: three in the right lung and two in the left. This procedure is most performed to treat lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in its early stages.

Preparation: Before the surgery, patients undergo several tests, including physical exams, chest X-rays, CT scans, PET scans, and pulmonary function tests. These tests help determine the extent of the disease and the patient’s overall health, ensuring they are fit for surgery.

Procedure: There are two main types of lobectomy procedures:

• Minimally invasive lobectomy: This includes video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS). Surgeons make small incisions between the ribs to insert surgical tools and a camera, avoiding the need to spread the ribs.
• Traditional thoracotomy: This involves making a larger incision and spreading the ribs to access the lung. This method is used for more complex cases where a minimally invasive approach may not be feasible.

Recovery: Post-surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days. Full recovery can take at least a month, during which patients may experience pain and need to follow specific breathing exercises to aid lung function. These exercises are crucial for preventing complications and promoting healing.

Uses of Lobectomy:

• Lung cancer: The primary use of a lobectomy is to remove cancerous tumours confined to one lobe. This can potentially cure early-stage lung cancer by eliminating the tumour and preventing its spread.
• Other conditions: A lobectomy can also be used to treat benign tumours, lung infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), tuberculosis, fungal infections, and lung abscesses.

A lobectomy can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life by removing diseased tissue and allowing the remaining healthy lung tissue to function more effectively. This procedure can lead to better breathing, reduced symptoms, and an overall improvement in health.

If you have any more questions or need further details, feel free to ask. Understanding the procedure, its benefits, and the recovery process can help you feel more prepared and confident as you navigate your treatment journey.