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Real members of MyLungCancerTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

My father has non small lung cancer stage 4. He refused chemo. After 2,5 months the doctor wanted to remove the pleural drainage.

A MyLungCancerTeam Member asked a question 💭
Germany

The pleural drainage was stuck. They decided he needed surgery and the doctor removed not only the drainage but also as many metastases in the lung as he could. Now my father qualifies for radiotherapy. Can anyone explain to me why he could not get radiotherapy or surgery before? How are chances he will get better with radiotherapy in stage 4?

January 8, 2025
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MyLungCancerTeam

In stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), surgery and radiotherapy are typically not the first options because the cancer has usually spread widely, making systemic treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy more effective. Surgery or radiotherapy is generally reserved for specific cases, such as Show Full Answer

In stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), surgery and radiotherapy are typically not the first options because the cancer has usually spread widely, making systemic treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy more effective. Surgery or radiotherapy is generally reserved for specific cases, such as when metastases are limited or to relieve symptoms.

Your father now qualifies for radiotherapy likely because the surgery reduced the tumor burden, making radiotherapy a viable option to target remaining cancer cells. While radiotherapy can help control the disease and improve quality of life, it is not typically curative in stage 4. The chances of improvement depend on factors like his overall health and how well the cancer responds to treatment.

January 8, 2025
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Stage 4 means the cancer is in your system, so requires systemic treatment in hopes of forcing it into remission. Surgery and/or radiotherapy only addresses individual areas, so the doctors know it will not slow progression and is a waste of money and resources. They can be beneficial to alleve localized pain though.

January 8, 2025

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