‘New frontier’ surgery for lung cancer

Surgery remains a critical treatment for patients with lung cancer. In the past, the only way to remove tumors was through a complex, open-chest operation that resulted in much pain for the patient and a higher risk of complications.

Sharp Memorial Hospital offers patients an alternative approach that leverages advanced technology and other surgical innovations. Robotic lung cancer surgery is a sophisticated, minimally invasive treatment option that delivers far more potential benefits than traditional or video-assisted surgery, including less damage from incisions, better outcomes and a faster recovery.

“Robotic surgery is a new frontier for lung cancer treatment,” says Dr. Craig Larson, DO, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Sharp Memorial, who performs the procedure. “The robot gives us superior control, makes our movements more precise and allows us to see better inside the body.”

How robotic lung surgery works
The robotic system looks a bit like an oversized arcade claw crane, with four mechanical arms. A surgeon controls the movement of the arms through a console several feet from the operating table. Using advanced technology, the robot translates every single movement from a surgeon’s hand, wrist, fingers and feet into tiny instruments attached to the mechanical arms. Through this method, the surgeon only needs to make a few small incisions to perform the entire procedure.

The system can even minimize the slightest hand tremor, an important consideration in a delicate area such as the lungs.

A surgeon’s point of view
One of the greatest benefits of robotic surgery is enhanced vision during the procedure, says Dr. Larson. Through the console, a surgeon gets a high-definition, three-dimensional view inside the chest. The robot can also magnify the surgical area by a factor of 10.

“Robotic surgery is an incredible advancement for working in very confined spaces, such as the lungs, where even a small injury to a lung vessel can quickly become a serious complication,” says Dr. Larson. “This procedure allows for more precise movements, which minimizes the risk to patients and leads to better outcomes.”

Robotics in the future
Robotics are set to transform how surgeons treat deadly diseases like lung cancer, according to Dr. Larson. This is particularly true for patients whose lung tumors are discovered in earlier stages when the cancer is easier to treat.

“Robotic surgery opens the door to offering the procedure to patients who would not be candidates for traditional surgery, including older patients and those with other medical challenges,” says Dr. Larson. “Ultimately, a lot more people will be able to get back to their normal lives faster.”

Learn more about the Outpatient Pulmonary Clinic at Sharp Memorial Hospital.