Why is lung resection surgery performed?

Lyall A. Gorenstein, MD on behalf of Columbia University Department of Surgery

Thoracic Surgery (Cardiothoracic Vascular)

A lung resection is a surgical procedure to remove a damaged or diseased portion of a lung, or a whole lung. Common reasons for undergoing a lung resection include cancer of the lung, metastatic cancer from other areas, emphysema, and some forms of tuberculosis. Lung resection surgery offers the best opportunity for curing lung cancer when the disease is caught in its early stages.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Lung Disease and Respiratory System

Diseases, pollutants and genetics can affect your respiratory health. The simple cold - which is caused by more than 200 different viruses - inflames the upper respiratory tract, resulting in a cough, runny nose and sneezing. A more severe cough combined with mucus is a sign of bronchitis, where the membranes lining the bronchial tubes become inflamed. The inflammatory lung disease asthma affects more than 20 million people, making airways constrict when exposed to irritants like dust, pet dander and cigarette smoke. Pneumonia, another inflammation of the lungs, can occur because of a bacterial or viral infection. People suffering from cystic fibrosis, an inherited lung disease, frequently battle bacterial infections and airways clogged with thick and sticky mucus.

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