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If a screening has identified nodules in your lungs, you can trust LVHN’s thoracic surgeons to use effective, minimally invasive approaches to remove these small, abnormal growths and determine if they are cancerous or benign. Armed with this information, you can partner with your caregivers on the best way forward. Rest assured, most lung nodules are benign.
Lung nodule evaluation, removal and treatment
Surgical removal
Your surgeon may remove your nodules to make a diagnosis through a minimally invasive approach with either robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery techniques. These frequently used techniques avoid a large incision in your chest by using small, inch-long incisions through which the instruments and camera can be inserted. Smaller incisions mean you have less scarring and heal faster. A special device is used to remove the nodule.
Robotic bronchoscopy
Another method to evaluate your suspicious nodule is by robotic bronchoscopy. For this procedure, a robotic directed fiberoptic camera is inserted into your airway without an incision. The camera is guided to a targeted nodule using a specialized electromagnetic navigation system. This is particularly useful if you’re too sick to undergo surgery but can be offered radiosurgery or stereotactic radiation instead. Gold markers are placed around the nodule or tumor so that it provides accurate targeting for treatment to destroy the nodule.
Lung cancer screenings
Detecting lung cancer at an early stage improves your outcomes from treatment. Learn more about lung cancer screenings and who should receive them.