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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
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Surgery is rarely used for small cell lung cancer, and is only possible when the cancer is at an early stage. Before surgery you may need further tests to make sure you're able to cope with the operation.
Surgery is often followed by chemotherapy| and radiotherapy|.
There are three main types of operation| for lung cancer:
The type of operation will depend upon the size and position of the tumour.
People are often worried that they won't be able to breathe properly if their lung has been removed, but it’s quite possible to breathe normally with only one lung. People who had breathing difficulties before the operation may continue to be breathless afterwards.
It can take many weeks to recover fully from a lung operation, although some people recover quicker than others. There are things you can do to help speed up your recovery. After your operation you'll be encouraged to start moving about as soon as possible. This is an essential part of your recovery. Even if you have to stay in bed, it’s important to keep up regular leg movements to help your circulation and prevent blood clots.
X-rays will be taken regularly after your operation to make sure your lung is working properly.
A drip (intravenous infusion) will be used to give you fluids for a couple of days, until you’re able to eat and drink normally again. You will also have drainage tubes in your wound. These are usually taken out about 2–7 days after your operation, depending on your recovery.
It's quite normal to have some pain |or discomfort after your operation. This can usually be controlled with painkillers. Let your doctor or one of the nurses know if you have any pain, so they can treat it as soon as possible.
You'll probably be ready to go home about 5–10 days after your operation. If you think that you might have problems when you go home – if you live alone, for example, or have several flights of stairs to climb – it’s important to tell one of the nurses when you’re admitted to the ward, so they can arrange help for when you go home.
Your doctor will tell you when it’s safe for you to start driving again after your surgery. It can take about 4–6 weeks for you to be fit enough to drive again. At first you may find that the seat belt presses on your wound and makes it sore.
Some car insurance policies give specific time limits for not driving after chest surgery; you may need to check this with your insurance company.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.