Lung cancer

Our center uses leading-edge diagnostic equipment to detect and diagnose even the smallest of lung tumors. We use a variety of imaging techniques, including:

• Computerized tomography (CT)
• Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Positron emission tomography (PET)

If an abnormality is confirmed on an imaging exam, we may perform a needle or surgical biopsy to confirm a lung cancer diagnosis. We may also use a special type of 3D navigational robotic bronchoscopy to create a 3D virtual roadmap to the lung spot being biopsied. This allows our doctors to perform a biopsy that is less invasive while still ensuring an accurate diagnosis.

We want cancer treatment to begin in its earliest stages, when it is most treatable. We work to rapidly diagnose lung tumors and form a personalized treatment plan. Lung cancer often does not present any symptoms in its early stages, which is why it frequently goes undetected until it advances. We offer a free low-dose CT lung cancer screening program to honor our commitment to the early detection of lung cancer.

A low-dose CT scan is a noninvasive, painless imaging exam that only takes a few minutes to complete. By receiving this screening exam, we can identify lung abnormalities in much earlier stages, far before symptom onset.

CT screenings for lung cancer are available if you are:

• 45 to 74 years old and an active or former smoker with a minimum of a 30 pack-year history of smoking
• 50 years old or older with a 20 pack-year (or less) smoking history and one of the following:
  • Family history of lung cancer
  • History of lung disease
  • Occupational exposure to known cancer-causing chemicals
  • Radon exposure

To schedule your lung cancer screening, please call our centralized scheduling line at (877) 357-0159.

Our doctors develop an individualized treatment plan for you, which may include:

• Minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery
• Radiation oncology, including external beam radiation and stereotactic radiosurgery
• Traditional surgery using smaller incisions

In addition to treatments for lung cancer, we also perform treatments to reduce symptoms associated with lung cancer. This may include laser bronchoscopy and airway stenting, both of which open up the airways for easier breathing.

With access to the latest in advanced technologies and lung cancer treatments, even those with advanced stage cancer or those who have gone through previous treatment can often experience better quality of life.

We know that receiving a lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. We have a dedicated oncology nurse navigator who is the go-to source for you to discuss all your questions and concerns. You are always just a call away from valuable information and access to resources to help you navigate cancer care.

In addition to being an information source, our cancer navigator helps you connect with:

• Community resources, such as transportation and prescription drug assistance
• Financial counselors
• Social workers
• Support groups

Our staff is a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals with expertise in:

• Interventional pulmonology
• Medical oncology
• Pathology
• Radiation oncology
• Respiratory therapy
• Thoracic surgery

For more information about how we connect you to top-level care or to make a referral, please call our lung nodule coordinator (706) 651-3633.