Disclaimer: This article is general information for patients and families. It does not replace consultation. Treatment decisions are personalised.
Best for
Early-stage, localised tumours
Decision depends on
Stage + lung/heart fitness
Approach
VATS / Robotic (when suitable)
1) What does “early lung cancer” mean?
“Early lung cancer” usually means the tumour is confined to the lung and has not spread to distant organs. Many cases fall under stage I and selected stage II, depending on lymph node involvement.
The goal in early-stage disease is often curative: remove the tumour completely with adequate margins and evaluate lymph nodes to guide further treatment.
2) When is surgery recommended?
Surgery is generally considered when:
- The tumour is localised and can be removed completely.
- Scans suggest no distant spread.
- The patient has enough lung and heart reserve to tolerate surgery.
- The cancer type is appropriate (commonly non–small cell lung cancer).
Your team may also discuss whether surgery is best done first, or whether chemo/radiation is needed before or after surgery.
3) What tests do doctors review before deciding?
A safe plan depends on both the tumour and the patient’s reserve. Common tests include:
CT Chest
Assesses size, location, and anatomy.
PET-CT
Helps evaluate nodes and detect spread.
Bronchoscopy / biopsy
Confirms diagnosis and type.
Lung function tests
Spirometry ± DLCO to estimate safety.
4) Types of surgery for early lung cancer
- Segmentectomy — removes a small segment (selected tumours).
- Lobectomy — removes one lobe (very common option).
- Pneumonectomy — removes an entire lung (less common).
Lymph node evaluation is often done during surgery to confirm stage and guide additional treatment.
5) What are VATS and robotic lung surgery?
Many lung operations can be performed through small incisions using minimally invasive techniques:
- VATS — camera + instruments through small ports.
- Robotic surgery — wristed instruments and enhanced control.
For suitable patients, minimally invasive surgery may mean less pain, faster mobilisation, and earlier discharge.
6) When surgery may not be the best option
- The cancer has spread widely.
- Lung/heart reserve is too limited for safe recovery.
- Other treatments offer better benefit–risk balance (e.g., SBRT for medically inoperable early cancers).
Key takeaways
- ✓ Early-stage lung cancer is often treatable and sometimes curable.
- ✓ Surgery is recommended when the tumour is removable and fitness tests show safety.
- ✓ VATS/Robotic approaches may be possible depending on anatomy and tumour factors.
FAQs
Is surgery always needed for stage 1 lung cancer?
Many stage 1 non–small cell lung cancers are treated with surgery if the patient is fit. If surgical risk is high, options like SBRT may be considered.
What tests decide if I am fit for lung surgery?
PET-CT/CT staging, lung function tests (spirometry ± DLCO), heart assessment and functional fitness are commonly reviewed.
What is the difference between VATS and robotic surgery?
Both use small incisions. VATS uses a camera and long instruments; robotic adds wristed instruments and refined control. Suitability depends on tumour location and anatomy.