Using Robotics To Treat Lung Cancer

Dr. Moritz

Lung cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, with 1.8 million new cases and 1.6 million deaths in 2012. But there is good news: Treatment options have improved and include advanced, minimally invasive surgical procedures using robotic techniques.

At PinnacleHealth, we take lung cancer surgery to the next level using the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Da Vinci robotic technology allows surgeons to minimize discomfort, reduce the risk of complications, reduce hospital stays and speed recovery time for patients.

How does the da Vinci System work?

Through a few small incisions, surgeons use the da Vinci system to control tiny surgical instruments. Da Vinci also allows surgeons to see a Magnified, high-definition 3-D image of lung tissue and features highly maneuverable “wrists” that can rotate 540 degrees. A range of lung cancer surgical treatments can be performed using the da Vinci system, including:

• Wedge resection, during which the surgeon removes a wedge-shaped portion of the lung that includes the tumor and some surrounding tissue
• Sub-lobar resection, during which the surgeon removes the part of the lung that contains the tumor and some surrounding tissue
• Lobectomy, during which the surgeon removes the entire affected lobe
• Lymph node dissection, during which the surgeon removes the lymph nodes around the lung
• Biopsy, during which a surgeon removes suspicious lung tissue to determine if it is cancerous

What are the benefits of minimally invasive robotic surgery?

“By using robotic systems and minimally invasive techniques as an alternative to traditional ‘open’ lung cancer surgery, we have significantly improved health outcomes for patients,” said Dr. Troy Moritz, thoracic surgeon at PinnacleHealth. “Patients experience less blood loss, faster healing and fewer complications. We take pride in continuing to be on the leading edge of lung cancer treatment using robotic technology and other advanced treatments.”

For more information on lung cancer services and treatments at PinnacleHealth.