Copd/lung cancer

[Patti72]

Is it true this type of patient are poor candidates for surgery? If so what is done to keep patient comfortable etc

[MissyD1]

Hi patti72 I am not an expert but as far as I know surgery depends on a few factors such as the stage of the tumour, the location of the tumour and if the patient will have sufficient lung function after surgery. I don't think having COPD automatically means surgery is out of the equation. My mum was found to have a tumour in each lung and at first her treatment plan was to have a lobectomy for the bigger tumour and radiation therapy on the smaller tumour (I think this is used instead of surgery for early stage tumours when a patient isn't suitable for surgery) but after lung function tests etc my mums consultant decided she was fit enough to have surgery on both lungs! Hope this helps. All the best to you!

[Patti72 in reply to MissyD1]

Thank you for fast reply, pray healing for your mum and peace and comfort for you. God bless.

[Hidden]

My mums maintenance radio therapy to the left breast nearly 29 years ago. They gave her non curative radiotherapy to the same area. I do believe it you haven't had radiotherapy in the same spit before they can do a curative intent in hope to shrink the tumour. Praying that it shrinks it to become invisible. I've been looking up ways to alleviate the copd or emphysema. Good luck and God bless everyone

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Dear Patti72

Welcome to the forum. As MissyD1 has replied it depends on a few factors: The position of the tumour but also the general health of the individual. There are varying degrees of severity of COPD and this would be considered and assessed by the specialist or anaesthetist re suitability of surgery. I have given some general information below:

There are many ways to manage and care for the symptoms of COPD on top of the lung cancer, and are usually assessed on the needs of the indiviual. Comfort and pain relief is a priority and can be arranged from the specialist, GP, Macmillan nurses etc.

Macmillan nurse helpline number is 0808 808 0000

The british lung foundation helpline number is 03000 030 555 and they have lots of information on the management of COPD on the following link:

blf.org.uk/support-for-you/...

We have information on the management of lung cancer symptoms on our website roycastle.org. You can also request this information to be posted out to you.

The lung cancer specialist nurse is a great resource on information and advice , they can be requested via the specialist or GP.

Maggies centres (UK wide) can provide, emotional, financial and general advice locally, their number is 0300 123 1801 and their website is maggiescentres.org/

If you wish to discuss anything you can call us on 0800 358 7200

All the best

The Roy Castle Support Team

[JeanE41]

What was the result of your scan? Have they confirmed that the tumor is malignant? If so, what treatment is being suggested?

[Patti72 in reply to JeanE41]

Thanks Jean, they are scheduling a bronchosopy later this week to see whats inside the mass. Was told scan only shows size and position. It's inch and a half thick, 3 inches long....thanks for caring will keep you posted.