Lobectomy overview

Overview

A lobectomy is surgery to remove one lobe (section) of the lung. It is most often done to treat lung cancer or other serious lung conditions that are located in just that lobe.

Lobectomy is a common procedure for early-stage lung cancer. Thousands are performed each year around the world.

It is most often performed on adults, especially people with lung cancer, severe infections, or non-cancerous growths in the lung.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Lobectomy itself does not cause symptoms. Symptoms that might lead to needing a lobectomy include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, or shortness of breath.

Symptoms in children

• Lobectomy in children is rare but may be done for severe lung infections or birth defects. Symptoms in children may include rapid breathing or repeated chest infections.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have the same symptoms as others, but they are more likely to have other health problems that affect surgery decisions.

Causes

Main causes

• Lung cancer (most common reason)
• Severe lung infections that do not go away with medicine (like tuberculosis or fungal infections)
• Non-cancerous tumors or growths in the lung
• Bronchiectasis (damaged airways that cause repeated infections)

Risk factors

• Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke
• Exposure to asbestos, radon, or other harmful substances
• Family history of lung cancer
• Having a weakened immune system

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Coughing up blood, even a small amount
• Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing

Book a routine appointment if:

• A cough that lasts more than 3 weeks
• Repeated lung infections
• Unexplained weight loss or tiredness

Diagnosis

A lobectomy is recommended after tests show a problem in one lung lobe that is likely to be cured by removing that lobe. The decision is made by a team of specialists.

Tests that may be done

• CT scan to see the size and location of the problem
• PET scan to check whether the problem is cancer and whether it has spread
• Bronchoscopy (a thin tube with a camera passed into the airways)
• Biopsy (taking a small sample of tissue to examine under a microscope)

What to expect at your appointment

Before surgery, you will have a thorough check-up, including lung function tests and blood tests. You will meet the surgeon and anaesthetist to discuss the operation and recovery.

Treatment

Lobectomy is the surgical removal of a lung lobe. It can be done through a large cut in the chest (thoracotomy) or with smaller cuts using a camera (video-assisted or robotic surgery).

Self-care at home

• Stop smoking as soon as possible before surgery
• Practice breathing exercises as taught by your healthcare team
• Stay active with gentle walks after surgery, as advised

Medical treatments

After surgery, you will receive pain relief and oxygen if needed. You may also have antibiotics or other medicines to prevent infection. The medical team will manage your recovery and any ongoing treatment for your lung condition.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is usually recommended when the problem is limited to one lobe and the rest of your lungs are healthy enough to let you breathe well after the lobe is removed.

Living with this condition

After a lobectomy, you will need time to heal. You may feel tired and short of breath at first. Most people improve steadily and return to normal activities within a few months.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid smoking and exposure to smoke or lung irritants
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Get vaccines (flu and pneumonia) to protect your remaining lung

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein to help your body heal. Start gentle walking as soon as your doctor allows. Gradually increase activity as you feel stronger.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Recovery can be emotional. It is normal to feel anxious or down after surgery. Talk to your care team or a counsellor if you need support.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk of needing a lobectomy by not smoking, avoiding harmful lung exposures, and treating lung infections early.

Vaccines

Flu and pneumonia vaccines can help prevent lung infections that might worsen your condition.

Screening programmes

If you are at high risk for lung cancer (for example, because of smoking history), CT screening may find problems early, when lobectomy is most effective.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a lung condition that could be treated with lobectomy is left untreated, it may grow, spread, or cause more damage to your lungs.

Long-term outlook

Most people recover well after lobectomy. The outlook depends on the reason for surgery. For early-stage lung cancer, lobectomy offers a good chance of cure. Your doctor will give you personalised information based on your situation.

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