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New Options for Thoracic Surgery

The da Vinci S System represents the next stage of evolution in minimally invasive techniques. Its 3-D imaging present a clearer picture to the surgeon of tissue structures in and near the site of the surgery. The minute size of the da Vinci instruments and the way the system enhances the surgeon's hand and wrist movements gives the surgeon more dexterity, versatility and precision in performing the procedure.

AAMC is one of the few centers nationwide currently performing the pulmonary lobectomy procedure using the da Vinci S System.

Lung Cancer Treatment

One of the most common treatments for lung cancer involves the surgical removal of the lobe of the lung, known as pulmonary lobectomy. Traditional thoracotomy and lobectomy require a large, 8-10 inch incision. This open surgery commonly results in substantial blood loss and a lengthy and uncomfortable recovery.

If your doctor recommends surgery to treat your lung cancer, you may be a candidate for a new, less-invasive surgical procedure called da Vinci pulmonary lobectomy. This procedure incorporates a state-of-the-art surgical system that helps your surgeon see vital anatomical structures more clearly and to perform a more precise surgical procedure.

For most patients, da Vinci pulmonary lobectomy offers numerous potential benefits over open lobectomy including:

  • Shorter hospital stay
  • Less pain
  • Less risk of infection
  • Less blood loss and transfusions
  • Less scarring
  • Faster recovery
  • Quicker return to normal activities

As with any surgical procedure, these benefits cannot be guaranteed as surgery is both patient and procedure specific.

The da Vinci S Surgical System is powered by state-of-the-art robotic technology. The System allows your surgeon's hand movements to be scaled, filtered and translated into precise movements of micro-instruments within the operative site.

The da Vinci S System enhances surgical capabilities by enabling the performance of complex surgeries through tiny surgical openings. The System cannot be programmed nor can it make decisions on its own. The da Vinci System requires that every surgical maneuver be performed with direct input from your surgeon.

The da Vinci S Surgical System has been successfully used in thousands of lung cancer procedures worldwide.

About Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the lungs. There are three classifications of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer (the most common type), small cell carcinoma (most strongly associated with tobacco use), and other tumors (which often metastasize from malignancies in other areas of the body).

Approximately 180,000 Americans will be diagnosed with lung cancer this year. Treatment options and prognosis depend on the stage of the cancer and factors such as the patient's age and general health. Many physicians believe that surgery offers the best therapy for cure in early stage lung cancer.

With greater public awareness, early detection is on the rise and mortality rates are declining. Additionally, new advances in medical technology are enabling cancer victims to go on to live active and productive lives after their treatment. Consult with your doctor for advice on the options that are available to treat your specific condition.