Lung Cancer

Fighting Lung Cancer with a Minimally Invasive Procedure

Lung cancer patients now have additional treatment options beyond surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Tumor ablation is a non-surgical, lung-sparing treatment for early-stage lung cancer. It is a minimally invasive image-guided procedure, performed by a vascular interventional radiologist.

Advances in Cancer Care

Direct Tumor Treatment

SLUCare specialists discuss the minimally invasive techniques revolutionizing the treatment of lung cancer.

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Ablation Targets Tumor, Spares Healthy Tissue

Ablation is performed through a tiny pinhole incision in the chest, allowing the physician to access the tumor directly. Using specialized CAT scan equipment, the physician passes a specially designed needle into the skin and guides it precisely to the location of the tumor, avoiding damage to normal lung tissue. Once the tip of the needle is confirmed to be in the tumor, the physician either uses extreme cold or extreme heat to destroy the tumor.

When the ablation is complete, the needle is removed and a Band-Aid® is applied to the incision site. The entire treatment typically lasts 1-2 hours. The patient goes home the same day, rests for a 1-2 days, and can then return to normal activities.

Why Choose SLUCare for Lung Cancer Treatment?

We are minimally invasive image-guided specialists. Our fellowship-trained doctors offer expertise in early-stage lung cancer ablation.
Treatment targets cancer, sparing the rest of the lung. By using state-of-the-art tools and techniques, we can precisely eradicate cancer cells while preserving lung function.
Our collaborative approach assures comprehensive care. SLUCare interventional radiologists work with pulmonologists and oncologists to determine who is a good candidate for ablation so we can deliver the best possible outcome.