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I'm really struggling with treatment options to get started. Surgery or radiotherapy. Would anyone like to share your experience?

A MyLungCancerTeam Member asked a question 💭
Bristol, TN
July 18, 2023
 · 
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A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Hi Sandy:
I'm a stage 2b adenocarcinoma. 2 nodules in upper left. I had SBRT 12/22 on a TrueBeam machine, I've had 2 scans since then, and the last one looked good.
I had no side effects whatsoever and would highly recommend radiotherapy.
IF YOUR CASE IS COMPATIBLE

July 19, 2023
MyLungCancerTeam

When deciding between surgery and radiotherapy for lung cancer treatment, it's important to consider various factors such as the type of lung cancer, the size and location of the tumor, and the stage of the cancer. Here are some insights from the knowledge base:

Surgery
- Early-Stage NSCLC: Typically treated with surgery Show Full Answer

When deciding between surgery and radiotherapy for lung cancer treatment, it's important to consider various factors such as the type of lung cancer, the size and location of the tumor, and the stage of the cancer. Here are some insights from the knowledge base:

Surgery
- Early-Stage NSCLC: Typically treated with surgery, especially in stages 1 and 2 where the cancer hasn't spread outside the lungs.
- Post-Surgery: May be followed by radiation or chemotherapy to eliminate remaining cancer cells.
- Health Considerations: Some individuals, like elderly adults or those with heart failure, may not be suitable for surgery.

Radiation Therapy
- SBRT: Recommended for those who can't undergo surgery, such as elderly adults or people with heart failure.
- Stage 3 NSCLC: Often involves chemotherapy and radiation to shrink the tumor before considering surgery.
- Stage 4 NSCLC: Radiation may be used alone if the patient isn't healthy enough for chemotherapy and surgery.

Side Effects and Management
- Radiation Side Effects: Can include skin issues, fatigue, and potential damage to the heart and lungs. It's crucial to talk to your doctor if side effects are severe.
- Coping Strategies: Include treating skin with aloe or lanolin, getting more rest, eating a balanced diet, and practicing relaxation techniques.

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Feel free to share your experiences or ask for advice on MyLungCancerTeam to connect with others who understand life with lung cancer.

July 12, 2024
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Sorry, it is in the right lobe. Said NSCLC, ran out of tissue from bronchoscopy so if I do radiotherapy TrucBeam will have to do bronchoscopy again first. If surgery they said remove the lower lobe get samples of 2nd lobe . In the 2nd lobe there is activity but doesn't light up so not sure if that is cancer. It measures 2.8, the one on bottom lobe.

July 19, 2023
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Jerry4, I was considering Tru Beam but concerned it would hurt my esophagus. Mine is in left lobe close to my esophagus and can't bear the thought of swallowing issues.

July 19, 2023
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Hello Sandy,
Greetings from Clarksville, TN.
It would help if you told us the type and stage. If it's NSCLC, what is the sub-type?
How many and what size are the tumors?
Have you had any treatment at all?
I didn't have surgery since my cancers were both stage 4, though I did have radiotherapy for the throat cancer. Depending on how many exposures and what strength, it can have lasting side effects, where as surgery can be "one and done".
Let us know the specifics of your situation and we may be able to better advise you.
Stay positive!
Tony

July 19, 2023

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