Emphysema with lung cancer

[Ann55]

My father has been diagnosed with cancer in the right lung.  He has emphysema with about 23% use of his lungs at this time.  He is still undergoing test, but my question is the probability of having it cut out?  Is it possible with the lung capability that he has?     Thanks for your reply, Ann

[National Jewish]

Your father has rather severe emphysema since he has the use of about 23% of his lung.  This would greatly increase his risk of problems with surgery.  If he is relatively young and otherwise healthy, surgery might be feasible.

Your father’s doctor will be able to give you the best answer to your questions since he knows the most about your father’s health.

[RTFLY]

I would think that this question is best answered by his physician. However, with 23% lung function, I would think that surgery would be a risky option, if it actually is an option. That is my opinion and I base that on what I have experienced with patients that have had similar surgeries with poor lung function. Your dad may be different and that is why I say this question is best answered by those who take care of him. His lung function may make him a difficult person to get off of a ventilator once the surgery was over. I hope you can get all your questions answered and I wish your family well...good luck!
                                        JCI RRT RCP

[Jed91]

A related discussion, Lung cancer was started.