Learn about Lung Cancer Treatment Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Lung Cancer Treatment and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Lung Cancer Treatment

Lung cancer treatment by a surgical oncologist involves the surgical removal of cancerous lung tissue, which is a cornerstone of curative therapy for many patients. This specialized surgeon performs precise procedures like lobectomy (removing a lung lobe), pneumonectomy (removing an entire lung), or segmentectomy (removing a smaller segment), often using minimally invasive techniques such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) or robotic-assisted surgery. The goal is to achieve complete tumor resection while preserving as much healthy lung function as possible. This treatment is typically part of a multidisciplinary plan, which may include chemotherapy or radiation before or after surgery to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Key Highlights

    Curative intent for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Can be performed using minimally invasive techniques (VATS/Robotic) for less pain and faster recovery.Allows for precise staging and accurate diagnosis via tissue analysis.Aims to completely remove the tumor with clear margins to prevent local recurrence.Often part of a multimodal treatment plan for optimal results.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC Stage I, II, and select IIIA).
  • A tumor that is localized and has not widely metastasized.
  • Patient has adequate lung function and overall health to tolerate surgery.
  • As a diagnostic procedure when a biopsy is inconclusive.
  • For palliative purposes to relieve symptoms like bleeding or obstruction in advanced cases.

How to prepare

  • Complete medical evaluation including pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and cardiac assessment.
  • Imaging studies like CT scan, PET-CT, and sometimes brain MRI for accurate staging.
  • Pre-operative counseling with the surgical and anesthesia teams.
  • Smoking cessation is critically important.
  • Adjustment or temporary stoppage of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised.
  • Fasting for 8-12 hours before the surgery.

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: bleeding, infection, blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).
  • Pulmonary complications: pneumonia, prolonged air leak, respiratory failure.
  • Cardiac complications such as arrhythmias.
  • Pain at the incision site(s).
  • Reduced lung capacity and shortness of breath, especially after pneumonectomy.
  • Rare risks: injury to nearby structures, anesthetic complications, recurrence of cancer.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Hospital stay involves pain management, breathing exercises (spirometry), and early mobilization.
  • Drainage tubes (chest tubes) are usually removed before discharge.
  • Post-discharge care includes wound care, continued breathing exercises, and gradual increase in activity.
  • Follow-up appointments for stitch removal, imaging, and monitoring recovery.
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation may be recommended to improve lung function.
  • Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for the advised period.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 4-8 weeks for return to light activities; 3-6 months for full recovery

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering lung cancer treatment in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for lung cancer treatment compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 250 Thousand – 800 Thousand 5-10 days ~ 4-8 weeks for return to light activities; 3-6 months for full recovery Know More
Turkey TRY 875 Thousand – 2.8 Million 5-10 days ~ 4-8 weeks for return to light activities; 3-6 months for full recovery Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Sneha Davis, a 58-year-old former school...

Sneha Davis, a 58-year-old former school librarian and non-smoker, was diagnosed with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer after a persistent cough and fatigue led to a CT scan. The scan revealed a small, isolated tumor in her right upper lobe. Her surgical oncologist, Dr. Evans, recommended a video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy, explaining it was minimally invasive and offered the best chance for a cure given the cancer's early stage. Sneha was terrified of surgery and the word 'cancer,' having lost her sister to a different cancer years prior. The procedure went smoothly, and her hospital stay was only four days. The recovery at home was challenging for the first few weeks due to pain and shortness of breath, but she diligently followed her physiotherapy. Six months later, scans showed no evidence of disease. Emotionally, Sneha moved from a state of shock and profound fear to one of cautious optimism. She now volunteers with a cancer support network, using her experience to comfort others, and feels a deep sense of gratitude for her second chance.

Surgical Oncologists for Lung Cancer Treatment

Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform lung cancer treatment and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Nitish Ranjan Acharya
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar

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Dr. Devesh S. Ballal
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

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Dr. Lakshmanan C.
  • 39 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Manjunath N. M. L.
  • 20 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated