MedifocusHealth

Surgery is the only type of curative treatment available for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Surgery is the treatment of choice for patients with early stage (Stages I and II) NSCLC. Unfortunately, only about 20% of non-small cell lung cancer tumors can be safely removed by surgery. In many cases, the tumor involves a vital structure or organ making the surgical removal of the tumor either too risky or not possible without damaging the vital organ. In those patients where the tumor can be safely removed by surgery, various surgical techniques may be used including:

• Wedge resection - removal of only part of a lobe
• Lobectomy - removal of an entire lobe
• Pneumonectomy - removal of an entire lung

The 5-year survival rate for patients with non-small cell lung cancer who have undergone complete surgical resection of the tumor has been estimated to be 60% to 80% for Stage I disease and 40% to 60% for Stage II disease. Recent studies now show promise for using chemotherapy following surgery in Stage I and II lung cancer in a similar way as using adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery for breast cancer. Additional clinical studies to evaluate the efficacy for using chemotherapy following surgery in Stage I and II lung cancer are ongoing.

Patients with Stage I or Stage II NSCLC where surgery is not possible (inoperable lung cancer) may be considered for external beam radiation therapy. This treatment modality involves the use of a linear accelerator (a high-energy X-ray machine) to direct radiation to the area of the cancer to kill or shrink the tumor. The procedure, which usually lasts only a few minutes, is usually administered 5 days a week over a period of 6 to 8 weeks. Side-effects of radiation therapy, which are usually temporary, may include:

• Skin irritation - skin may become red, warm, or sensitive and may feel similar to sunburn.
• Fatigue and loss of energy
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hair loss
• Low blood count

Many patients who undergo surgery for Stage I or Stage II NSCLC will later develop locally advanced (Stage III) or metastatic (Stage IV) disease. At this point, patients may wish to consult with their oncologist about the potential risks and benefits of entering into a clinical trial. Information regarding ongoing clinical studies in your area can be obtained at:

• Clinical Trials Listing Service: http://www.centerwatch.com.
• Cancer Clinical Trials: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov