The Division of Thoracic Surgery employs the latest and most effective surgical techniques in treating chest diseases such as lung and esophageal cancer, chest wall cancer, pleural cancers (including mesothelioma) and mediastinal tumors. Minimally invasive approaches are used whenever possible and may result in quicker recovery times and fewer surgical complications. Patients benefit from an integrated approach to managing conditions affecting the lungs and thoracic cavity: a coordinated effort between all members of the treatment team determines the need for post-surgery follow-up with radiation and/or chemotherapy to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Minimally Invasive Techniques
City of Hope’s minimally invasive techniques play a major role in diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, ranging from lung biopsy to lung resection, where surgeons use the robotic da Vinci Surgical System.

City of Hope also uses the da Vinci S Surgical System for treatment of esophageal cancer, performing fully-robotic esophagectomy which entails esophagus removal and reconstruction. This procedure offers patients less pain and blood loss, smaller incisions and faster recovery.