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What We Do
Through our multi-disciplinary Lung Cancer Program, a part of Thoracic Oncology at The Cancer Center and The Division of Thoracic Surgery, we employ advanced physician expertise and state-of-the-art medical technology to aid in the management of diseases of the lung, esophagus, and the mediastinum. The Division integrates all of the services needed by patients to address their medical, emotional, social, and psychological needs. Patients can schedule one appointment and see a number of specialists during the same visit, including medical and surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, advance practice nurses, and support staff.
Although the vast majority of our patients are treated for cancers of the lung, esophagus or mediastinum, we also treat benign lung disease and pulmonary lesions.
For patients with cancerous lesions, experts at the medical center are able to determine the best course of action based on a variety of characteristics, including staging of the tumor and various methods of assessing each patient's lung and cardiac status.
The following technologically advanced procedures are used to determine a tumor’s characteristics:
- CAT scans
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scanning – a test that measures metabolic activity of the lesion in question
- Bronchoscopy
- Thoroscopy – a minimally invasive surgical procedure, similar to laparoscopy, which utilizes video technology
- Needle biopsy
- Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
The division takes a multi-disciplinary approach to the management of lung and esophageal cancers to ensure that each patient receives the best possible treatment. Depending on the unique circumstances of each case, surgical intervention may be used alone, or in conjunction with chemotherapy and/or radiation.
Benign lung conditions treated by The Division of Thoracic Surgery include pleural effusion and lung infiltrates such as unusual types of pneumonia, inflammatory lung disease, and pulmonary tuberculosis.
In addition, thoracic surgeons at the medical center offer treatment for hyperhidrosis through a highly effective minimally invasive procedure.
As part of our commitment to offer the best health care to those we serve, the Division participates in national clinical trials and other research activities to help identify newer and more effective methods of treating thoracic diseases.
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