Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer - Surgical Procedures

Laser Surgery. Laser surgeries allow removal of minimal amounts of lung tissue and are proving to useful for improving symptoms in stage II and IIIA patients. They may also be beneficial in treating cancers that have spread to and obstruct the throat.

text continues below

Photodynamic Therapy. Photodynamic therapy uses bronchoscopy and special laser light beams combined with a photosensitive drug called porfimer sodium (Photofrin) to kill cancer cells. The most common side effect is sun sensitivity. Serious side effects include bleeding in the lungs. Photodynamic therapy may be considered for patients in early-stage disease who are not candidates for other surgical procedures. It may also be used to reduce symptoms in late-stage disease.

Cryosurgery. Cryosurgery uses a probe chilled to below freezing to destroy the tumor cells on contact and is being investigated in combination with radiation therapy. It may also be an alternative in early stage cancer for patients who are not surgical candidates.

Electric Cauterization. Electric cauterization also is under investigation as a treatment for early-stage disease.

Back Surgery. Spinal cord compression is a common cause of pain in patients with advanced lung cancer. Because such patients can live for a year or longer, some research indicates that back surgery followed by radiation therapy can significantly improve the quality of life for many of these patients.