Lung cancer, the most common form of cancer worldwide, is defined as a disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lung tissue. Smoking is the major risk factor for this type of cancer, but air pollution, genetic predisposition and exposure to harmful chemicals also play a role.

Lung cancer usually progresses quietly, manifesting itself with symptoms such as shortness of breath, persistent cough, bloody sputum, wheezing, sudden weight loss, and pain in the body. This type of cancer is divided into two as small cell (oat cell) lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer, says Assoc. Prof Dr. Oktay Aslaner,Thoracic Surgeon,Medline Adana Hospital, and gives further information about this condition stating that surgery plays a life-saving role when performed in the early stages of cancer, and under certain conditions.

Cancerous tissue is removed

Surgical treatment is usually preferred when the cancer is confined to a single area of the lung and has not spread to lymph nodes or distant organs. This treatment is performed to completely remove the part of the lung where the cancerous tissue is located and is most commonly used for non-small cell lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer is usually not treatable with surgery because it tends to spread quickly.

Preparation process is a critical step towards success

It is critical that patients undergo a detailed evaluation before surgical treatment. This includes an analysis of the patient's general health, lung capacity and the spread of the cancer. Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET) and bronchoscopy are used to determine the stage of the cancer. Heart and lung function tests are also performed to determine if the patient can tolerate surgery. This process of preparation prior to surgery has a direct impact on the success of the surgery, and the recovery process.

Physician recommendations should be followed

The length of the recovery period from lung cancer surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the overall health of the patient. Patients usually stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery for postoperative observation. Full recovery may take several weeks. Temporary problems such as pain, fatigue, and difficulty breathing may occur after surgery. Infection, bleeding, clotting, and collapsed lung (pneumothorax) are among the risks that may develop after surgery. Patients should follow the doctor's recommendations without hesitation and do breathing exercises to prevent these problems.

Early surgery boosts success rate

Surgery is the most effective treatment for early-stage lung cancer because it allows the complete removal of cancerous tissue. Survival rates are much higher with surgery than with other treatments. However, for surgery to be effective, there must be no spread of the cancer. In later stages, or in cases where the cancer has spread to lymph nodes and distant organs, surgery may not be successful. If this is the case, surgery may be combined with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy. As with all cancers, regular screening, and follow-up are important because early detection increases the likelihood of successful surgical treatment.