A lobe is one of the sections that make up each lung.

The right lung has three lobes, and the left lung has two.

There are two main types of lobectomy procedures.

Types of Lobectomy

Verywell / Hilary Allison

Types of Lobectomy

A lobe of your lung can be removed using a few different methods.

This involves spreading the ribs apart to get access to the lungs.

This procedure is becoming the preferred technique.

A VATS lobectomy may be considered forstage 1orstage 2non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

When a VATS lobectomy is possible, it may result in fewer complications than an open lobectomy.

Potential Risks

A lobectomy is a major surgical procedure andsurgical complicationsare not uncommon.

Your healthcare provider will discuss these with you prior to surgery.

ensure to ask why an open lobectomy is recommended if this is the only choice you are given.

Many surgeons recommend getting a second opinion at one of the largerNational Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers.

It’s recommended that you take some time to review the steps toprepare for lung cancer surgery.

Some dietary supplements can increase bleeding time and need to be stopped well in advance of surgery.

You may be given antibiotics intravenously before or after the surgery.

Your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing will be monitored throughout the operation.

An instrument will be used to spread the ribs apart.

The healthcare provider will remove the tissue and close up the incision with stitches or staples.

It sends images to a computer screen to help the surgeon visualize the area.

Surgical instruments are then inserted through the other incisions and used to remove the problematic tissue.

The nursing staff will help you get up and move about as soon as you are able.

Prognosis

The prognosis following a lobectomy depends on many different factors.

The five-year survival rate for lobectomy patients is approximately 70%.

You may want to also consider pulmonary rehabilitation.

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