Lung Cancer Surgery

If you have early-stage lung cancer, your care plan might include surgery at Cone Health. You’ll have the best chance of a good outcome thanks to our skilled surgeons, less invasive techniques, and nationally recognized care.

Lung cancer surgeon studies vitals monitor during surgery

Compassionate cancer care starts with a referral.

Ask your primary care provider for a referral — or find one here.

Questions? Call us at 866-822-8740.

Find a Primary Care Provider

High Performing Hospital

You can trust our expertise because U.S. News & World Report named our Greensboro hospitals “high performing” in lung cancer surgery in 2025. This honor reflects our:

  • High number of patients, meaning we have the experience to help you get well as quickly as possible
  • Good results on a patient survey about their time with us
  • More nursing care per patient and good nurse communication, which leads to better outcomes, safety, and satisfaction

Tests Before Surgery

Before surgery, you’ll have tests to make sure your body is strong enough for the operation. They could include:

  • Lung function tests to check how well you breathe
  • Heart tests like an echocardiogram and electrocardiogram (EKG)
  • Blood work to check the health of other organs

Your doctor will also check if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes around your lungs.

Types of Lung Surgery

Depending on the size and location of your tumor, your surgeon may perform:

  • Wedge resection—Removes part of a lung lobe (section)
  • Lobectomy—Takes out a whole lobe
  • Pneumonectomy—Removes the whole lung
  • Sleeve resection—Offers an alternative to pneumonectomy (for some tumors) to keep more of your lung

Less Invasive Approach for a Faster Recovery

Your surgeon will make the smallest incisions possible to remove lung cancer. That might mean using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). It uses a scope (tube with a light and camera) to show the inside of your lungs without a large incision. That means less pain, a lower risk of side effects, and a quicker return home. No matter what technique your surgeon uses, we’ll help you get back on your feet as soon as it’s safe to do so.

Rehabilitation Rebuilds Your Strength

After surgery, your care team may refer you to lung rehab at Cone Health. We’ll make an exercise program just for you and watch your vital signs to help you stay safe as you work out. You and a loved one will also learn how to take care of yourself at home. Take advantage of this program to feel more in control of your health and enjoy a more active life.

Cancer Care Matters

Explore the latest news in cancer prevention and care from Cone Health Wellness Matters to help you take a proactive approach informed by Cone Health experts.

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