Treatment

Wedge Resection (Lung Surgery)

Overview

Wedge resection is a type of lung surgery where a small, triangular piece of lung tissue is removed. This surgery is often done to remove a lung nodule, tumor, or damaged tissue, especially when it is small and localized. It is considered a less invasive alternative to removing an entire lobe of the lung (lobectomy), and often performed through minimally invasive techniques such as VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery).

Why Wedge Resection (Lung Surgery) Procedure is Required?

• To remove suspicious lung nodules that may be cancerous or precancerous.
• To treat early-stage lung cancer when the tumor is small.
• When lung function is limited, and larger surgery like lobectomy may not be safe.
• To diagnose or treat non-cancerous lung conditions like infections or inflammation.
• As part of a biopsy procedure to confirm a diagnosis.

Key Advantages of Wedge Resection (Lung Surgery) Treatment

• Preserves more healthy lung tissue compared to lobectomy.
• Suitable for high-risk patients who cannot tolerate major surgery.
• Can be performed using thoracoscopic wedge resection (VATS), reducing recovery time.
• Offers a diagnostic and therapeutic solution in one procedure.
• Often has fewer complications and a shorter hospital stay.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Wedge Resection (Lung Surgery) Treatment

• Medical evaluation: Get lung function tests, imaging (CT scans), and blood work done.
• Quit smoking (if applicable) to improve lung healing after surgery.
• Discuss medications with your doctor—some blood thinners may need to be stopped.
• Eat light meals and follow fasting instructions before surgery.
• Arrange support for help during post-operative recovery at home.

How Wedge Resection (Lung Surgery) Treatment is Performed?

• Surgery can be done through a thoracotomy (open chest) or minimally invasive VATS.
• A small section of lung (in wedge shape) is removed, containing the abnormal tissue.
• If done by VATS lung wedge resection, small incisions and a camera are used for precision.
• The lung is checked for bleeding or leaks, and then the chest is closed with sutures.
• In some cases, a chest tube is placed to drain air and fluid.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before Procedure:
• Detailed consultation and lung function assessment.
• You may be admitted a day before surgery.
• Fasting for at least 6–8 hours before the procedure.
• During Procedure:
• General anesthesia is given.
• Either VATS or open surgery is performed.
• The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours.
• After Procedure:
• You will be monitored in the recovery room or ICU.
• A chest tube will help drain fluid for a few days.
• Most patients stay in the hospital for 3–5 days.
• Breathing exercises and light movement will begin early to support lung recovery.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Air leaks from the lung, which may need chest tube support for longer.
• Bleeding or infection at the surgical site.
• Pain in the chest or shoulder.
• Pneumonia or lung infections post-surgery.
• Reduced lung capacity in some cases, though usually mild.
• Possibility of tumor recurrence if not fully removed.

Results/Outcomes

• Many patients resume normal activities within a few weeks.
• Lung function after wedge resection often remains strong, especially with VATS.
• Faster recovery time than larger lung surgeries.
• Effective treatment for early lung cancers with good survival rates.
• Helps avoid more radical surgery when appropriate.