VATS approach for lung nodule surgery: How was your recovery? Pain?

My Dad, his Dad, his Sister and his brother all died of lung cancer but I am older and they died at 69, 70, 67 and 65. I was diagnosed at 66. We have no way of knowing what KIND of lung cancer theirs was but it would sure be nice to know where this came from. I have never smoked and just at the end of my yearly physical asked for a chest x-ray because I knew I was inching toward the age my Dad was when he died. Mine was 2.3 centimeters so it had been growing awhile. Do you have to know the type of cancers all of your family members had to participate in this study? I would do ANYTHING to not fear I would pass this on to my children.

@kenhorse
I had the same experience with two rats (robotic surgery) six weeks apart. The second surgery took a little longer recovery but overall just over the counter painkillers. NED from 2023 (2 and half years 😜)

@raffi Thank you for the encouraging words! Glad you’re doing well. I’m not familiar with the acronym NED, could you explain it please? Thanks.

Thank you! Looking into this.

Hi @marylb. I had a similar surgery this past August. The surgeon did a wedge biopsy in my upper right lobe, it was identified as malignant and so they carried on and did a lobectomy. I was discharged after two days. I had more pain than the others above, athough a couple of things may have contributed to that including previous surgeries and an allergic reaction to the adhesive dressing. I used Tramadol for the pain for about three weeks and am still using Lyrica for nerve pain. I agree with the tight band around my middle and can't wear a regular bra. Get a cotton sports bra (Fruit of the Loom makes a simple one, like a short cami that's super comfortable) and wear loose tops. I'm 68 and slowly getting back to my usual activities. You can do it. I think. you will be surprised.

Hi Yes I recently had this type of surgery RLL. Had robot assisted procedure to remove malignant tumor Sclc early stage. 6 hours in theatre 3 days hospital came home with drain.. Im post op 6 months still pain as described by consultant and was expected. My last scan was no spread don't need further treatment obviously further scans for the future to keep an eye on things... Managing pain bit swings and roundabouts to be fair. But managing can take up to 12 months I was told. Hope this helps good luck for surgery hope all goes well.