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A lung cancer diagnosis is scary. It’s the second most common cancer among men and women. Fourteen percent of all new cancer diagnoses each year are lung cancers. The American Cancer Society estimates that 234,030 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer in 2018 and 154,050 people will die from lung cancer in 2018.

When a person is diagnosed, he or she talks with the doctor about treatment options that include chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy. However, there are many non-medical and more natural ways of helping yourself survive lung cancer, as well.

As a robotic lung surgeon and specialist, I meet with patients to discuss treatment options. Depending on your stage of cancer, medical history, and age, we will determine the best treatment for you. In this article, I share some things you can do on your own to try and beat cancer.

Make sure you have a good support system. You will need good emotional support during this time. Whether it’s friends, family, or a licensed therapist, you should find support people to talk to. You might even want to joint a support group with other cancer fighters and survivors.
Be honest with yourself about your state of mind during your time fighting the cancer. If you feel depressed or anxious, don’t ignore it or hide it. Tell a doctor and seek out help. Studies have shown that people with advanced stages of lung cancer who have acute or mild depression lived only half as long as those who were happy/not depressed. Depressed people living with lung cancer had a 2 to 10 times higher risk of suicide than the average person, as well. Please don’t bury your feelings. If you aren’t happy, let someone know and try and get help.
Ask for palliative care. Palliative care is not hospice, but it is support and care from nurses, doctors, and social workers. A study showed lung cancer patients who had a palliative care consult lived at least two-and-a-half months longer than those who didn’t.
A healthy diet. Stick to fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. Make sure your foods are whole foods. Try to eliminate processed and fried foods. Fuel your body with real food with vitamins and minerals that can help keep your strong during your cancer fight.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you are currently living with lung cancer, robotic lung surgery could be the best option to remove the cancer.

Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who performs robotic lung surgery to treat lung cancer. He will evaluate you and determine if you are a good candidate for this surgery. To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail has offices in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida.

Most people know cigarette smoking is bad for one’s health. Lung cancer caused by smoking is the most preventable form of cancer. A non-smoker’s risk of developing lung cancer is 23 times less than that of smokers. Each year, 87% of lung cancer deaths are caused by smoking.

When you inhale smoke from a cigarette, the smoke particles get trapped in the cilia, the tiny hairs that line the air passage of the lungs. Over time, smoke and tar are absorbed deep into the cilia. The cilia become clogged and irritated and the cilia cells can become cancerous.

The smoke inhaled from a cigar is filled with tobacco and other poisonous chemicals that can lead to lung cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, a single cigarette contains as many as 42-61 carcinogens. These carcinogens include cyanide, polonium, benzene, carbon monoxide, methoprene, nicotine and arsenic. Nicotine suppresses part of the immune system that is trying to fight cancerous cells.

The smoke doesn’t just put carcinogens into the lungs; it changes the DNA of cells in the body. It changes how fast the cells grow and reproduce, which can lead to malignant tumors and lung cancer.

It’s never too late to quit smoking. When you quit smoking, you can start to reverse the bad effects.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you are a smoker with lung cancer, we recommend you stop smoking immediately and seek treatment to remove the cancer, if possible. If you have a lesser stage lung cancer, robotic lung surgery may be the best option to remove the cancer.

Although lung cancer isn’t a rare or unheard-of cancer, there are a lot of myths out there about this type of cancer. If you are hearing some questionable things about lung cancer, talk to a doctor or nurse – a medical professional will tell you the truth and real facts about lung cancer. Remember, you can lower your risk of lung cancer by quitting smoking, avoiding smoke inhalation, eating a healthy diet, and exercising.

In this article, we clear up some myths about lung cancer.

Smoking is the only cause of lung cancer – Smokers and nonsmokers alike can get cancer. Sure, lung cancer is caused mostly by smoking, but there are other causes, as well.
Lung cancer can’t be treated – Yes, it can. Many stages of lung cancer are operable; tumors can be removed by robotic lung surgery.
Living in a city raises my risk for lung cancer more than smoking – Being exposed to pollution and exhaust can raise the risk for lung cancer but it’s a small risk compared to smoking.
Young people can’t develop lung cancer – Yes, they can. Usually, lung cancer affects the older population, but it can form in teenagers, children, and even toddlers.
Surgery spreads lung cancer – Surgery cannot spread cancer. Surgery removes cancer during its early stages.
Quitting smoking doesn’t help once you already have lung cancer – It can help. When you quit smoking, your chances of surviving lung cancer go up and your treatment will be more effective.
More women die of breast cancer than lung cancer – More women die from lung cancer than any other cancer.
If I am diagnosed with lung cancer, I am guaranteed to die – The survival rating isn’t high, but the disease is treatable. If diagnosed early, the disease is more curable, especially if the cancer can be removed. Treatment can extend your life.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you have lung cancer, especially an early stage of lung cancer, your best bet would be to get the cancer removed.

Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who performs robotic lung surgery to treat lung cancer. He will evaluate you and determine if you are a good candidate for this surgery. To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail has offices in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida.

If you’ve been diagnosed with lung cancer, your doctor has told you what stage the cancer is in. The stage of cancer refers to the degree to which the cancer has spread in the body. The doctor estimates the size of the tumor/cancer and checks to see if it has metastasized in the lymph nodes or other organs.

Determining the stage of the cancer helps the doctor decide what kind of treatment the patient will need. The stage of cancer also helps the doctor come up with a prognosis. The higher the stage cancer is in, the worse the prognosis.

To determine the stage of cancer, the doctor runs several blood tests, as well as CT scans, PET scans, bone scans, and X-rays.

Below, we detail some basic information about each of the stages of cancer.

Stage 0 – This stage is when the cancer is found only in the cells that line the air passages. Many doctors don’t even consider this a stage. In this stage, the patient may not need any treatment.

Stage I – This stage is when the cancer cells are just in the lungs. The patient may have Stage 1A or Stage 1B cancer depending on the size of his/her tumor and if the main bronchus is affected. In this stage, the patient has the option of surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Stage II – This stage is when the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, diaphragm, chest wall, lining of the lungs, and/or outer lining of the heart. This stage is also divided into IIA and IIB depending on the size of the tumor and if the main bronchus is affected. In this stage, the patient has the option of surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Stage III – This stage of cancer is when the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in between the lungs and heart. There is also a chance the blood vessels and the lower neck may be affected. If a person has IIIA, the cancer has spread to the same side of the chest where the cancer started, while IIIB is when the cancer has spread on the opposite side of the chest from where the cancer started. The patient has the option of surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy with IIIA cancer but cannot have surgery with IIIB cancer.

Stage IV – This stage of cancer is when the cancer has spread to the other lung or other areas of the body and cannot be removed by surgery. The patient would need radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you are currently living with Stage I, II, or IIA lung cancer, robotic lung surgery may be the best option to remove the cancer.

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Any cancer diagnosis is scary, but it’s even scarier when it’s a lung cancer diagnosis since lung cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer. In fact, lung cancer has killed more people than any other cancer. Lung cancer is incurable. However, this cancer is also the most preventable.

If a patient isn’t operated on, he or she is likely to survive less than four or five years.

Lung cancer is most common in people 60 years old and older.

Since lung cancer is the most preventable form of cancer, what can you do to reduce your chances of developing this deadly form of cancer?

Don’t smoke.
Try not to inhale smoke or exhaust around you. Sit away from smokers.
Eat fresh fruit and vegetables that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help keep cancer at bay.
Drink alcohol in moderation.
Eat whole grains.
Limit the amount of red and processed meat in your diet.
Limit salt and sugar intake in food and drinks.
Don’t ignore chronic coughs, fatigue, wheezing, or blood in your saliva.
Get regular physical exams.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you’ve been diagnosed with lung cancer, your best bet may be surgery. A surgeon will meet with you and examine you to determine if you are right for the surgery. Robotic lung cancer surgery may be your best option to being cancer free.

Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who performs robotic lung surgery to treat lung cancer. To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail has offices in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida.

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We all get sick. Stuffy noses, coughs, aches and pains are common, but sometimes, our symptoms, especially if they linger, can be signs of something much more serious than the common cold.

The problem with many sicknesses, whether serious or not, is that some symptoms overlap and are similar. Many of lung cancer’s symptoms are similar to many other conditions and illnesses that affect the lungs.

If you’re feeling any bad symptoms in your lungs or chest that linger longer than a few days, it’s critical you go to be checked by your doctor. The later stage of lung cancer a person is in, the harder it is to treat.

As a robotic lung surgeon and specialist, I want to share with you some symptoms that may be signs of something serious if they last for more than a few days. Even if you only have one of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to have it checked by a doctor.

Recurrent/persistent cough
Coughing up blood
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Fever
Hoarse voice
Weakness
Feeling ill
Weight loss
Wheezing

As you can see, these symptoms can easily be symptoms of other conditions, diseases, and illnesses. Regardless, they are symptoms that should not be ignored if they are not clearing up quickly on their own. Of course, you can have these symptoms and have something a lot less serious than lung cancer. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so let your doctor diagnose and treat you.

If you are coughing up blood, wheezing, and/or have a hard time breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Do not wait a few days. These symptoms are serious.

Schedule an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

Have you been diagnosed with lung cancer? Are you a candidate for lung cancer surgery? Looking for a surgeon? Dr. Mikhail is a robotic lung surgeon and specialist who performs minimally-invasive robotic lung surgery. He will examine you, listen to your medical history, and determine if you are a candidate for this specific type of lung surgery.

To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail has offices in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida.

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As most people know by now, fruit is good for you! Fruit is loaded with vitamins and antioxidants that help the body thrive, function, and heal itself. Fruits are a great snack and can help people maintain healthy weights.

For a person living with lung cancer, it is crucial to have fruits as part of your daily diet. Fruits will help reduce any complications.

How do fruits benefit lung cancer patients?

Fruits can help raise a person’s energy levels, so lung function is better maintained.
Since it is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, active phytochemicals, and fiber, fruit can help ward off chronic illnesses and help prevent health complications.
Tomatoes and apples are known to help against respiratory illnesses. A person should consume around 5 or more servings of apples and 3 servings of tomatoes per week to help decrease his/her chances of having complications with lung cancer, according to the American Thoracic Society.
Pineapple is known to be a cancer-fighting fruit. According to the International Journal of Cancer, 100g of pineapple per day can reduce a person’s lung cancer risk by 10 percent. Pineapples contain bromelain, an antioxidant enzyme, that can help inhibit cancer cell growth.

To receive the full health benefits of fruit, a person should consume them whole instead of in juice form. Many fruit juices lack fiber and are high in sugar. Fruit is most beneficial for the body when consumed raw.

Fruit cannot rid the body of cancer, but it can help keep your body up-and-running and help fight the cancer.

Each person’s dietary needs are different, so it is important you talk to your doctor about how many servings of fruit you should consume per day and what kinds of fruits you should choose.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you are living with lung cancer and are looking for a surgeon to remove it, consider Dr. Mikhail, a robotic lung surgeon and specialist who performs minimally-invasive robotic lung surgery.

To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail has offices in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month – a time to raise awareness of the unhealthy habits that can lead to lung cancer and to remind everyone of the lung cancer statistics. A lot more needs to be done so fewer people get lung cancer each year and to make lung cancer a more manageable disease.

Anyone can get lung cancer – regardless of age, gender, race, smoking, family history, or environmental exposures. Each year, 228,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer, and close to 158,000 people die from it. The lung cancer five-year survival rate is extremely low at only 16.8% whereas breast cancer is 89.2% and prostate cancer is 98.9%. Lung cancer kills 433 Americans per day. One in 15 people in the United States will be diagnosed with lung cancer during their lifetime.

Statistics for new lung cancer cases indicate that 17.9% of people never smoked and 60% already ended the habit.

If you have lung cancer or know someone who does, there’s a lot you can do to spread awareness during the month of November. You can talk about lung cancer on social media, you can create a lung cancer event in your community, you can contact your local paper or news team to run a story on it, you can hang flyers around town and in clinics, and you can donate to lung cancer groups like www.lungcancerfoundation.org or the Lung Cancer Foundation of America. You can wear a white ribbon during the month to spark conversation about lung cancer. You can share lung cancer research information, for example the FDA has approved more than twice as many new lung cancer treatments in the last two and a half years than it did in the last decade. You can share a lung cancer survivor story.

The point of this month is to help all of us become more aware of this disease, how to detect it and the treatments for it.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you are living with lung cancer, you should talk to a surgeon to see if you are a viable candidate for robotic lung surgery. It is a minimally-invasive lung cancer surgery.

If you just had lung cancer surgery (or are about to), your body just went through a lot. Now, it’s time for you to heal and recover. Besides rest, a great way to help you recover is through your diet. According to the National Cancer Institute, about one-third of cancer deaths are related to poor nutrition. After lung cancer surgery, a good diet can keep you healthy and strong.

Every person’s diet plan after surgery will be a little different as everyone’s dietary needs are not the same. Your dietary needs will depend on your age, weight, allergies, sensitivities, and if you had chemotherapy or radiation.

Your body needs a good amount of nutrients to help itself heal after surgery. You will need protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. You should drink lots of fluids, as well.

It’s a good idea to eat several small meals, so your body receives nutrients throughout the course of the day.

Here are some foods you should be eating post lung cancer surgery:

Fruits – Fruits will give your body vitamins A, E, C, and D. Vitamin E is known to help lower the risk of lung cancer recurrence. Many fruits, like apples and dried fruits, are also rich in fiber to help the digestive system, which can be a little off post-surgery.

Vegetables – Vegetables, such as leafy greens, are also filled with fiber to aid in digestion. Vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals that help your body recover.

Meat – Lean meat like chicken and fish are great sources of protein.

Low-fat dairy – Milk, cheese, and yogurt help the digestive tract post-surgery.

You should talk to your doctor or a nutritionist about the best post-lung cancer surgery diet for you.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you are currently living with lung cancer, robotic lung surgery may be a great option to remove the cancer.

Surgery is scary, but it saves lives. When it comes to lung cancer surgery, the surgeon can remove your cancer, and you can be back to living a normal life in a few short weeks. However, as with any surgery, there are risks. Sure, the risks are rare and usually minimal, but they do exist and need to be discussed.

Here, we share with you some of the risks of having lung cancer surgery. It’s so important for you to go into a surgery well-informed. The risks of every surgery will be different depending on the type of lung surgery you’re having, the type of cancer you have, your age, and your medical history. With minimally-invasive robotic lung surgery, many of the risks are reduced, but risks still exist, as with any surgery. Twenty-two percent of patients who have had lung cancer surgery suffer minor complications, which are not a threat to the patient’s life, but which can slow the healing process.

Minor complications include:

Air leak – This is the most common complication; this takes 3 to 5 days to heal.
Nausea/vomiting – This occurs from surgery and medications.
Infection – A minor infection will keep the patient in the hospital a little longer.
Bleeding/bruising
Painful scar formation
Allergic skin reactions – These can occur from the dressings, especially if they aren’t changed often enough.
Skin numbness – This is due to needles or the surgery itself.

8 to 9 percent of lung cancer surgery patients suffer from a major life-threating complication.

Major complications include:

Heart attack
Stroke
Irregular heart rhythm
Heart failure
Kidney failure
Pulmonary embolism
Lobar torsion
Lung failure
Bronchopleural fistula
Diabetes – This may occur from lung cancer medications.

Before undergoing surgery, talk to your surgeon about the risks. The risks listed above just give a general idea of those involved in lung cancer surgery. Your risks will depend on many factors.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

Are you ready to get the lung cancer surgery you need? The pros often outweigh the cons when it comes to lung cancer surgery. Minimally-invasive lung surgery may be a great option to remove your cancer.

Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who performs robotic lung surgery on lung cancer patients. To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail has offices in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida.

Surgery is hard, but recovery may be harder – physically and mentally. But thanks to minimally-invasive lung cancer surgery, recovery is easier and shorter than in the past.

After surgery, you will still need to check in with your doctor/surgeon for checkups to evaluate your healing process. The follow-up appointments can also help identify if there is any recurrence of lung cancer cells.

Your first appointment after the surgery will be in two to six weeks, and then every three months after that.

Before the surgery, your doctor will give you a recovery plan, which will detail when you can return to daily activities. Your doctor will help you through your steps of recovery.

Once you return home, you will need friends and family to help with you with cleaning, cooking, and bathing. You will need to do breathing and coughing exercises to speed recovery. It is important to go for a walk three to six times a day. You should follow the diet the doctor writes for you. You cannot lift anything heavier than five to eight pounds for two weeks after surgery. You can shower normally; clean your incision site with soap, and pat dry. Baths are not allowed for two weeks post-op.

If your chest tube site is continuing to drain with a foul smell, notify your doctor.

You may experience pain post-op; if the pain persists and is bad, a doctor will prescribe you medication to take at home. Call the doctor if the pain continues.

If you experience any side effects post-surgery, call your doctor or report them during a follow-up visit. If you feel pain/burning/numbness/tingling in your upper back, shoulders, chest and abdomen, you can take a Motrin (600mg every eight hours) or Aleve (as directed). Your skin may be hypersensitive, and you may experience constipation; both are normal post-surgery. You will be more tired than usual. Don’t ignore any symptoms (even common ones), because they could lead to complications.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

The above information is generalized, but your recovery and care plan post-operation are individualized. Your doctor will let you know the proper post-op care and side effects of your lung cancer surgery.

If you are currently living with lung cancer, robotic lung surgery may be a great option to remove the cancer. It is minimally-invasive and will give you a shorter hospital stay, less pain, and less scarring.

Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who performs robotic lung surgery to treat lung cancer in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida. To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information.

Lung cancer surgery is a big deal. Most likely, you are feeling a lot of different emotions including fear and anxiety. Minimally-invasive robotic lung surgery will have you back on your feet quicker than open surgery. You will recover faster and be in the hospital for fewer days.

Here are a few tips for you to prepare yourself before your lung cancer surgery. The more prepared you are, the less anxious you will feel.

Ask your doctor as many questions as you can so you will feel more comfortable.
Read and understand all the instructions the doctor gives you regarding your diet, physical activity, medications, and more.
Hold onto these instructions and keep them handy.
Figure out what medications you’re allowed to take pre- and post-surgery.
Call your insurance company ahead of time to see what will be covered and who you can be expecting to bill you.
Ask your insurance if it’s possible to be put on a payment plan, or if they can direct you to anyone who can help with financing this surgery.
Let your employer know you are undergoing this surgery and will be out short-term. You may be eligible for short-term disability or the Family Medical Leave Act, which protects you from losing your job while out for surgery and/or cancer-related hospitalizations.
Ask your doctor if you should start exercising or pre-habilitation before surgery to help you get stronger and more flexible.
Ask about your nutrition pre- and post-surgery. You want to be strong going into surgery and strong afterwards.
Perform breathing exercises at home before surgery to get you ready for the surgery. You will have to perform these exercises post-surgery, as well.
If you’re a smoker, stop smoking.
Figure out who will drive you home post-surgery.
Figure out who will help you at home post-surgery. You will need help cooking and cleaning for a short while.

Every doctor and hospital are different with what instructions and prep they will give you. The above tips are just a general idea of things to think about and prepare for with lung cancer surgery.

Schedule an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you need lung cancer surgery and are looking for a surgeon, Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who performs robotic lung surgery to treat lung cancer. He has offices in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida.

To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information.

Like most surgeries, a doctor needs to determine if a patient is a good candidate for a certain procedure. Usually, older patients are considered higher risk for many surgeries. Doctors, family members and the patients themselves may decide they cannot afford the risks of going through with the surgery, as the risks may outweigh the benefits.

These days, lung cancer surgery is proving to be an effective treatment at increasing survival in patients diagnosed in the earliest stages of cancer, even for older patients. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, researchers found that older patients (even patients over 75 years old) with early stages of lung cancer who received treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York City usually survive their cancer for longer than five years and are more likely to die from a non-cancer cause.

Physician-scientist Prasad Adusumilli from Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) believes patients should not be denied this surgery simply because of their age. He believes surgery has shown to be quite effective in curing the disease in his patients.

The MSK study looked at more than 2,000 patients living with Stage 1 non-small cell lung cancer, which is the most common lung cancer. These patients received lung surgery at this hospital to remove their tumors. The five-year survival rate post-surgery was around 90 percent, and those patients who died the first two years post-surgery usually died from a non-cancer related cause. More than one-third of the patients studied were older than 75 and had other serious health conditions, which shows that age is not an issue with this surgery.

If an older patient needs lung surgery, he or she will also be under the care of other specialists who will pay attention to their heart and lungs during and after their hospital stay.

Dr. Adusumilli says he offers lung cancer surgery to any patient when he can assure that their quality of life will be the same within a month post-operation.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you are in your golden years, don’t rule surgery out! Minimally-invasive robotic lung surgery can be an effective surgery for older patients. Your best bet is to meet with a surgeon to discuss the best plan for you.

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We understand the weight on your shoulders after a lung cancer diagnosis. You have a lot to think about, and a lot of decisions to make. Knowledge is power, so regardless of your age or other existing health conditions, the best thing you can do for yourself is fully learn and understand all the options available to you to help treat your cancer.

If you are in the earlier stages of lung cancer, you are most likely a good candidate for lung cancer surgery and doctors will usually recommend this route of treatment. There are several different types of lung cancer surgeries available. The lung cancer surgery that you are eligible for depends on your health, lung fitness, tumor location and stage of cancer.

Here are four different surgical procedure options for lung surgery:

Wedge/Segmental Resection – In this surgery, the surgeon removes the tumor along with a small part of the surrounding normal tissue.

Lobectomy – In this surgery, the surgeon removes a part (lobe) of the lung.

Pneumonectomy – In this surgery, the surgeon will remove one lung in its entirety.

Sleeve Resection – In this surgery, the surgeon removes a part of the lung (lobe) with part of the bronchus (airway).

From open surgery (thoracotomy) to minimally-invasive procedures, there are different surgical approaches to the procedures mentioned above. Meet with a lung surgeon to discuss and determine the best option for you based upon your current and past health conditions and family history.

Robotic lung surgery specialist and surgeon Dr. Peter Mikhail performs minimally-invasive lung surgery on his patients. In minimally-invasive robotic lung surgery, a surgeon uses a camera and robotic tools inserted into the body through small incisions between the ribs to perform the surgery; the ribs are not spread in this type of surgery. Minimally-invasive surgery gives patients shorter hospitals stays, shorter recovery times, less pain, and smaller scars. Robotic lung surgery is allowing patients to go home in as few as two days after surgery with a return to normal activities within a month compared to one-to-two weeks in the hospital with a return to normal activities within a several month span.

Book an Appointment for Robotic Lung Surgery in Tampa or New Port Richey, Florida

Need a surgeon to remove your lung cancer? Look no further. Dr. Mikhail is a skilled surgeon with years of experience. After a physical exam and discussion with you, Dr. Mikhail will determine which surgical procedure is best for you.

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Minimally-invasive lung surgery can be very effective in removing lung cancer, but unfortunately, it is not for everyone. Lung cancer surgery is best for patients with early stages of lung cancer. If you have an early stage of lung cancer, talk to your doctor and a surgeon as soon as you can about minimally-invasive lung surgery.

Minimally-invasive surgeries are being used more and more these days. When the surgeon decides that minimally-invasive surgery will work on the patient, it is usually the patient’s best treatment option. During a minimally-invasive surgery, a surgeon can switch to open surgery if any safety issue arises.

There are numerous benefits to minimally-invasive lung cancer surgery including less time in the hospital, shorter recovery time, less scaring, and less pain. In this surgery, the surgeon makes a few small incisions instead of one large incision, so the ribs are not spread. Patients can return to their normal life and activities in little more than half the time.

This type of lung surgery is not right for everyone. If you have a later stage cancer, a history of pulmonary infections, have had open chest surgery in the past, have had radiation in the chest or have had a coronary artery bypass graft surgery, you likely cannot undergo minimally-invasive lung surgery. However, this approach has become an available option to patients who were once ineligible for surgery, including patients with diminished lung function or emphysema.

If you are eligible for minimally-invasive surgery, opt for it over open surgery. If your doctor or surgeon doesn’t have experience with this type of surgery, find one who does. More surgeons are becoming experienced and familiar with this type of lung surgery. It is believed that minimally-invasive procedures will become the standard and go-to procedure in the years to come. Also, as lung-cancer screenings become more accurate, more patients will know earlier on if they have cancer, which means they will likely be eligible for this type of lung surgery.

Schedule A Minimally-Invasive Lung Surgery in the Tampa area

If you have lung cancer, you may have more treatment or surgical options than you realize. If you are a candidate for the minimally-invasive approach, seriously consider undergoing this surgery.

Looking for a lung surgeon? Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who performs robotic lung surgery to treat lung cancer in patients. To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail has offices in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida.

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Robotic surgery is the way of the future, but it’s also the way of the present! More doctors and hospitals are using robotic technologies to operate on patients. Robotic surgical machines help doctors be more precise during surgery while also making the surgery less invasive.

Robotic surgery is a minimally-invasive procedure, which means patients typically have shorter hospital stays, less post-op pain, less tissue damage, less blood loss, fewer transfusions, reduced risk of infections, and less scarring,

Research has shown that individuals who underwent robotic surgeries saw significantly shorter stays compared to patients who underwent open surgery. On average, the hospital stay was 2 days shorter. Many patients can go home as early as the day after surgery or within 72 hours instead of five days.

As of right now, most Stage I lung cancers are still being performed by the open surgical technique, but robotic surgeries are gaining popularity due to their benefits. After the procedure, patients have pain but report it to be tolerable. Total recovery time is usually two to three weeks with the robotic system instead of four to six weeks.

Robotic lung surgery gives surgeons better precision, increased range of motion, improved dexterity and access, and enhanced visualization. With robotic lung surgery, the breastbone is not split. As of now, robotic lung surgery still has limitations and is still not used for complex procedures.

With robotic lung surgery, the surgeon makes a few tiny incisions between the ribs. Robotic surgery is performed for early stage lung cancer, so patients have an improved chance of beating lung cancer with this surgery because they are diagnosed when the cancer is in its earlier stages.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you are currently living with lung cancer, robotic lung surgery may be a great option to remove the cancer. You will experience a shorter recovery time, have less pain, and smaller scars from this surgery.

You don’t have to be a smoker to get lung cancer. Lung cancer is the second-most diagnosed cancer in the United States. Fortunately, there has been a decline in new lung cancer diagnoses since 2001, which goes together with the declining number of people smoking.

As a robotic lung surgeon and specialist, I want to share with you some lung cancer statistics:

Lung cancer is the second-most common cancer in men and women.
14 percent of new cancers are lung cancers.
The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 234,030 new cases of lung cancer in 2018 and 154,050 deaths from lung cancer in 2018.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in men and women.
More people die of lung cancer each year than colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined.
The majority of people who have lung cancer are over 65.
The average age a person is diagnosed with lung cancer is 70.
As a woman, the chance of developing lung cancer is 1 in 17.
As a man, the chance of developing lung cancer is 1 in 15.
Black men are 20 percent more likely to develop lung cancer than white men.
White women are 10 percent more likely than black women to develop lung cancer.
Approximately 430,000 people alive today have been diagnosed with lung cancer.
218,527 new cases of lung and bronchus cancer in the United States were reported in 2015,.
According to the CDC, 153,718 people died of lung and bronchus cancer in the United States in 2015.

The statistics can be scary, but with proper treatment, there is hope of living a better life with or free of lung cancer. If you have lung cancer and are a good candidate, the da Vinci Surgical System, or other robotic system, is a great surgical option to remove the cancer. You will experience a shorter recovery time and have smaller scars from this surgery.

Schedule an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who uses the da Vinci Surgical System to treat lung cancer. To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida, and he treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

As technology advances, we can accomplish more in the medical field. We can help more people feel better, heal, recover, and get their lives back. Robotic lung surgery is one of the technological advancements that is helping people with lung cancer live healthier, cancer-free lives.

As a robotic lung surgeon and specialist, I want to share with you some reasons why you should consider robotic lung surgery, if you are a viable candidate.

Being a minimally-invasive surgery, there is less trauma to your body.
Since there is less trauma to your body, your recovery period is shorter.
There is a shorter hospital stay.
Less post-op pain and discomfort.
Less tissue trauma. Less scarring.
There is only a small incision(s).
Less blood loss.
Reduced risk of infection.
Your ribs do not need to be spread open, and we don’t need a saw to open your breastbone to access the cavity and diseased tissue.
There are fewer complications with this surgery.
You can return to your daily activities faster.
This procedure is very precise.
Doctors get full exposure and depth perception using the robotics and video camera.
The robot mimics the movements of the human hand.
Doctors can see the area and dissect around the vessels better because of the camera and robotic. The lung vessels are delicate, and any injury could lead to life-threatening bleeding.
This procedure can handle more complicated tumors, which until recently necessitated open-chest surgery.
The procedure helps skilled surgeons make better judgments.

If you currently have cancerous tissue in your lungs or esophagus, robotic lung surgery is a great surgical option to remove the cancer. You will experience a shorter recovery time and have smaller scars from this surgery.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who uses robotic lung surgery to treat lung and esophageal cancer. To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida, and he treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

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Robotic lung surgery can treat a variety of different cancers and conditions. In this article, we’re focusing on bronchogenic cysts.

What are bronchogenic cysts? Bronchogenic cysts are abnormal growths that a person has from birth (congenital). These cysts have thin walls and they’re filled with fluid or mucus. These cysts can be found in the mediastinum, which is the part of the chest that separates the lungs.

The causes of these cysts are unknown. For many, these cysts will produce no symptoms. Many times, a person learns that he/she has these cysts accidentally from another test. If the cysts grow large, it can start to press against the esophagus or airways. The cysts can also become infected. Whether it’s growing or infected, a person may experience respiratory issues, a fever, or have trouble swallowing.

How are bronchogenic cysts diagnosed? These cysts can be found through x-rays, an esophagram (barium swallow), which is an x-ray of the esophagus, a CT scan, an MRI scan, or a bronchoscopy (small tube that goes through the nose and down the throat into the main airway of the lungs).

If it is discovered you have a bronchogenic cyst, your doctor will recommend treatment that is most appropriate for you depending on the cyst, your current health, and your medical history. Ideally, the doctor will want to remove the cysts. There are different ways to remove the cysts, including robotic lung surgery, thoracotomy, and video-assisted thorascopic surgery (VATS).

In robotic lung surgery, surgeons perform the cyst removal surgery while sitting at a computer console. The surgeon’s hand movements are mimicked by the robotic machine which has precise control. In a thoracotomy, the surgeon makes an incision on the side, back, or in between the ribs. In VATS, the surgeon makes tiny incisions in the chest and inserts a thorascope and surgical instruments.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you have bronchogenic cysts you may be able to have them removed with robotic lung surgery. Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon. He can help determine if you’re a candidate for the surgery and will answer all your questions about the surgery. To learn more about the surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida. He treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

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Robotic lung surgery can treat a variety of different cancers and conditions. In this article, we’re focusing on lung nodules.

What are lung nodules? Lung nodules or pulmonary nodules are small round- or oval-shaped growths in the lung. These spots are also referred to as spots or coin lesions. Nodules are smaller than 1.2 inches. If these nodules grow bigger than that size, they are no longer a nodule and are considered a pulmonary mass. When it is a mass size, the likelihood of it being cancer is greater.

Nodules can either be malignant (cancerous) or benign (noncancerous). More than 90 percent of lung nodules smaller than ¾ inches are benign. Benign nodules can be caused by inflammation in the lung from a disease or infection. Malignant nodules are often found in people who were/are smokers and are older in age. Overall, most pulmonary nodules are benign.

Nodules are commonly found through x-ray and CT scans. For the most part, lung nodules have no symptoms. Usually, a patient will never know that he or she has a lung nodule unless he/she has an x-ray or CT scan done. A positron emission tomography (PET) scan can also tell if a nodule is malignant or benign. A doctor can also biopsy a small area from the nodule to determine if the nodule is benign or not.

If a nodule is concerning or malignant, the doctor will want to remove it through surgery. Benign nodules usually don’t require treatment. If the patient is healthy enough for surgery and the cancer has not spread, the malignant nodule can be removed.

Nodules can be removed through a thoracotomy or video-assisted thoracoscopy. In a thoracotomy, a person undergoes open lung surgery. A cut is made in the wall of the chest to remove the cancerous lung tissue. A mini-thoracotomy can be performed, when possible, for a less invasive procedure. A video-assisted thoracoscopy (robotic lung surgery) uses a tube with a camera at its end, so the surgeon can see the nodule. This surgery has a smaller cut and a shorter recovery time than a thoracotomy.

Book an Appointment with a Tampa Robotic Lung Surgeon

If you have pulmonary nodules that are growing, concerning or malignant, you may be able to have them removed with robotic lung surgery. Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon. He can help determine if you’re a candidate for the surgery and will answer all your questions about the surgery. To learn more about the surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida. He treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

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Robotic lung surgery can treat a variety of different cancers. In this article, we focus on one specific cancer: Non-small cell lung cancer.

What is non-small cell lung cancer? Non-small cell lung cancer is one of two major types of lung cancer that affects both smokers and nonsmokers. Each year in the United States, more than 200,000 people are diagnosed with this cancer. This is the most common form of lung cancer.

This cancer is serious, but treatment can possibly stop it from getting worse.

About 80-85 percent of lung cancers are non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). There are different subtypes/tumors of NSCLC because they start from different types of lung cells, but they are all treated similarly. Smokers are the most likely to develop this cancer, especially if over the age of 65.

The three different types of tumors from NSCLC are adenocarcinoma, squamous cell (epidermoid), and large cell (undifferentiated).

About 40 percent of lung cancers are adenocarcinomas, which occurs mainly in smokers or former smokers; however, it is also the most common type of cancer in non-smokers. This type starts in the cells in the air sacs that make mucus. It is known to grow slower than other lung cancers.

Squamous cell carcinomas start in the cells that line the inner airways of the lungs; about 25 percent of lung cancers are this type.

Large cell carcinomas are tougher to treat because they grow and spread quickly. This type accounts for 10 percent of lung cancers. It can appear in any part of the lung.

Besides these three subtypes/tumors, NSCLC includes adenosquamous carcinoma and sarcomatoid carcinoma, but they are much less common.

There is no exact cause for this cancer, but many people who have it have smoked, been around smoke, or have been exposed to radon, asbestos, air pollution, radiation, and HIV/AIDS.

Symptoms of this cancer include coughing, chest pain, hoarseness, voice changes, harsh, raspy sounds when breathing, wheezing, weight loss, little appetite, coughing up blood or mucus, and shortness of breath.

If you have NSCLC, you may be able to have it treated with robotic lung surgery. Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon. He can help determine if you’re a candidate for the surgery and will answer all your questions about the surgery. To learn more about the surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida. He treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

For patients with esophageal cancer, there is hope, because esophageal cancer is one of several cancers that can be treated with robotic lung surgery. Esophageal cancer occurs in the cells that line the inside of the esophagus. It occurs more often in men than women. It is the sixth most common cancer that causes deaths in the world. Esophageal cancer is associated usually with tobacco and alcohol use, obesity and nutritional habits.

Some symptoms of this type of cancer include dysphagia, unexpected weight loss, chest pain, chest pressure, chest burning, worsening indigestion, bad heartburn, coughing, and hoarseness.

The exact cause of esophageal cancer is unknown. Types of esophageal cancer: adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and small cell carcinoma, sarcoma, lymphoma, melanoma, and choriocarcinoma.

Researchers believe that chronic irritation of the esophagus may contribute to changes that lead to esophageal cancer. Such risk factors include: smoking, obesity, drinking alcohol, bile reflux, GERD, Barrett’s esophagus, consumption of alcohol, not eating enough fruits and vegetables, or undergoing radiation to the chest or upper abdomen.

With esophageal cancer, people can experience pain, bleeding in the esophagus, and obstruction of the esophagus.

To diagnose this type of cancer, a doctor performs an endoscopy or biopsy. If it is determined the patient has cancer, the doctor will run more tests to determine the extent of the cancer. These tests include endoscopic ultrasound, computerized tomography and positron emission tomography.

The type of treatment a patient receives for esophageal cancer depends on the types of cells in the cancer, the stage of the cancer, and the patient’s health status.

If the cancer is small and at an early stage, it can be removed with robotic lung surgery.

If you currently have an early stage of esophageal cancer, you may be a good candidate for robotic lung surgery. Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon. He can determine if you’re a candidate for the surgery.

Have you been diagnosed with small cell lung cancer? If so you may be a candidate for robotic lung surgery. Robotic lung surgery is a minimally invasive surgery that uses an intuitive robotic system for surgical assistance through video. This type of surgery is one of the most promising developments in lung cancer treatment. This surgical treatment is offered to patients with early-stage lung cancer.

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for 10 to 15 percent of lung cancers.

There are two main types of SCLC: small-cell carcinoma (oat cell cancer) and combined small-cell carcinoma. Small-cell lung cancer grows rapidly, spreads quickly, responds well to chemo, and responds well to radiation therapy.

What causes SCLC? The main cause of small-cell lung cancer is smoking. However, exposure to radon and asbestos can cause small-cell lung cancer.

A person with SCLC usually experiences symptoms for 8 to 12 weeks before seeing a doctor. Symptoms occur from the growth of a tumor. Symptoms include coughing, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing and swelling of the face and hands.

A doctor will order and perform various tests and exams to diagnose if a patient has SCLC including:

Asking about medical history
Asking about smoking history
Giving a general physical exam
Ordering a chest X-ray
Ordering a CT scan
Ordering a thoracentesis
Performing a bronchoscopy
Performing a lung biopsy
Performing a mediastinoscopy
Ordering blood tests

After determining if the patient has lung cancer, the doctor will perform more exams and tests to see at what stage the cancer is to determine what treatment is best.

If you currently have an early stage of SCLC, you may be a good candidate for robotic lung surgery. Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon. He can determine if you’re a candidate for the surgery and will answer questions about your condition.

To learn more about the surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida. He treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

The da Vinci Surgical System is a minimally-invasive effective treatment option for lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and lung-cancer-related conditions. In this surgery, the surgeon operates the da Vinci System from a seated position using instruments to make a few tiny incisions in between the ribs. The ribs are not spread.

The system is an effective treatment for lung and esophageal cancer patients. Since it is a minimally-invasive surgery, it causes less side effects and there is a shorter recovery period for the patient. This system allows the patient to experience less scarring and pain, and less time in the hospital.

Some benefits of the da Vinci Surgical System:

Lower risk of infection or complications
Less blood loss
Shorter hospital stays
Reduced pain
Less scarring
Smaller incisions
The ability to return to normal daily life quicker
Faster recovery
Reduced blood loss and transfusions
Better precision and control for the surgeon
Enhanced dexterity for the surgeon
Greater visualization for the surgeon

This system enables the surgeon to perform complex surgical procedures. The surgeon uses controls, which are situated below the viewing screen, to move the three robotic instruments and camera that are inside the body. Through small incisions, the surgeon can remove the lung cancer with increased precision, vision, dexterity, range of motion, and control. The surgeon controls every surgical maneuver throughout the procedure.

If you are currently living with lung cancer, the da Vinci Surgical System is a great surgical option to remove the cancer. You will experience a shorter recovery time and have smaller scars from this surgery.

Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon who uses the da Vinci System to treat lung cancer. To learn more about robotic lung surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida, and he treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

Recovery from any surgery can be challenging, whether big or small. Surgery is harsh on the body. Post-surgery, you may have to do things differently for a while to help your body heal. You may also need the help of friends and family for certain tasks until you’re back to your usual self.

Robotic lung surgery is a minimally invasive surgery that uses an intuitive robotic system for surgical assistance through video. With this surgery, people get curative surgery without large incisions or their ribs being spread. You will have less damage from incisions with a faster recovery and fewer complications.

Despite it being a less harsh surgical option, your body still will need to recover. Once you’re at home, what should you expect?

Your doctor will ask you to be very active by walking 5 to 6 times per day. The activity helps the recovery process.
You will be advised to use your incentive spirometer at least 2 to 3 times per day.
You will have a prescription for pain medication. No driving while on narcotics.
You cannot lift anything heavier than 5 to 8 pounds for 2 weeks.
It’s encouraged that you try to stretch your arms over your head often.
You may experience drainage from the chest tube site, which is normal. If it continues and is producing a foul smell, the doctor should be notified.
You can shower after the chest tube is removed.
You can clean the incision with soap. It should be gently patted dry. Baths are not allowed for 2 weeks after surgery.
If you have a frequent cough, you can take Robitussin.
If you experience pain/burning/numbness/tingling sensation in upper back, shoulder, under breast, and abdomen, you can add Motrin (600mg every eight hours) or Aleve (take as directed) to your pain medication. Talk to your doctor about what medication and dosage is right for you.
You may experience hypersensitivity of the skin, which is normal.
Your pain medication may cause constipation. If a bowel movement doesn’t occur at least every other day, you can take Milk of Magnesia or a laxative.
You will feel tired post-op, which is common and normal.

Your doctor will let you know, even more specifically, what to expect post-robotic lung surgery and what you need to do at home. Your home recovery plan will be tailored to your needs.

If you’re looking for a skilled surgeon to perform your robotic lung surgery, Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon. To learn more about the surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida. He treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

You have decided to have robotic lung surgery. Although minimally invasive, this surgery is a big undertaking on your body. However, the outcome is that you will live longer and have a better quality of life.

Depending on what occurs during surgery and your individual plan, you will stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days. You will likely be able to return to your own personal care and daily activities in an independent manner before heading home from the hospital.

Here’s what to expect immediately after your surgery:

You will be moved to the ICU after surgery and will spend 1 to 2 days there.
You may wake up with a breathing tube, but it is usually removed the day after surgery.
You will have to perform breathing and coughing exercises every hour while you are awake.
You will be hooked up to one (or more) IVs.
You will have chest tubes near the incision.
You will receive pain medication (as needed).
You may have blood drawn.
The doctor will discuss your diet with you.
You will come up with a plan with your doctor and family to help you with certain activities or tasks you are still unable to do on your own easily.
Your chest tube is removed after a couple of days.
After the chest tube is removed, you should wash the area with soap and water.
You should walk three to four times a day.

You are unique, so your number of days in the hospital and experience will vary depending on your age, other conditions you may have, pain levels, and any complications. Your doctor’s post-op plan for you will be tailored to your needs so you can be on the best path to recovery.

If you’re looking for a surgeon to perform your robotic lung surgery, Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon. He will let you know what to expect during and after your surgery. He is happy to answer all your questions and work with you every step of the way. To learn more about the surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida. He treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

Surgery can be a scary experience, especially when your surgery is for cancer. When you and your doctor have come to the decision that minimally invasive robotic lung surgery is the best option for you, the doctor will detail you on what to expect before, during, and after surgery. As a Tampa robotic lung specialist and surgeon, Dr. Peter Mikhail takes the time to thoroughly explain the surgery and all it entails with his patients.

Knowledge is power and, as a patient, you have every right to know what your surgery entails. For a surgery to be the most successful, it’s essential that you properly prepare for it. Below, our team wants to share some pre-surgery tips on things you should do/ask so your surgery goes as well as it possibly can.

Ask your doctor what you can or cannot do or eat before surgery.
Ask about the hospital admittance process.
Ask about the type of anesthesia the doctor will use.
Figure out what your insurance will cover.
Ask your insurance if they will provide wellness benefits (discounted rehab or nutritional care).
Let your doctor know all medications, supplements, and vitamins you currently take.
See if you need certain medical clearance or tests before surgery such as x-rays, lab work, and pulmonary function tests.
Eat foods rich in iron before surgery. The iron helps boost the circulatory system and blood counts.
Find out if you need to lose weight before you can be cleared for surgery. The doctor may have you work with a nutritionist.
If you can, try to quit smoking. Smoking delays healing and recovery.
Ask the surgeon/doctor if you should be doing any pre-surgical exercises.
Fill out any necessary paperwork with your employer for disability claims.
If you are a regular alcohol consumer, talk to your doctor about his/her recommendations.
Let your doctor know if you use any controlled substances or narcotic pain medications. Regular use of these drugs can impact surgery and post-op pain control.

Robotic Lung Specialist and Surgeon Dr. Peter Mikhail will discuss with you more thoroughly the best pre-op care for you. The above list is just a sample of things to keep in mind.

If you’re looking for a surgeon to perform your robotic lung surgery, Dr. Mikhail performs these surgeries in the Tampa and Clearwater areas of Florida. He will answer all your questions about the surgery and help you to prepare for it.

If you’re suffering from lung cancer, you may have come to the decision with your doctor and surgeon to undergo robotic lung surgery

Robotic lung surgery is a minimally invasive surgery that uses an intuitive robotic system for surgical assistance through video. It is an alternative to open-chest operations. This surgical treatment is offered to patients with early-stages of lung cancer.

Surgery can be a scary concept to a lot of people, but the more you know beforehand, the more comfortable you will be with the idea of having the surgery.

It’s important for you to ask your doctor and/or surgeon any questions that come to mind. If you’re unsure what to ask, our office has provided some basic questions you should ask before surgery. Answers will vary depending on your particular surgery, healing process, and medical history.

What are the risks involved with robotic lung surgery? What are the benefits?
How long will the surgery take?
Why is this the best option for me?
What are the possible complications?
How much pain will I experience when I go home?
How should I manage the pain? Will I be given pain medication? For how long?
How long will I be in the hospital?
Will I be put on antibiotics?
Can I eat and drink normally after the surgery?
Will I be able to walk and shower by myself?
How long is recovery?
How often do you want to follow up with me post-op?
Can I go home after surgery or do I need to stay at a rehab facility?
Will I need physical therapy?
How long will it take me to be active again?
How long will it take me to return to my daily activities?
When can I drive again?
When can I return to work?
What activities need to be avoided following the surgery and for how long?
What will I have to change in my life?

If you’re looking for the right surgeon to perform your robotic lung surgery, Dr. Peter Mikhail is a robotic lung specialist and surgeon. He can help determine if you’re a candidate for the surgery and will answer all your questions about the surgery. To learn more about the surgery, click Dr. Mikhail’s Tampa Robotic Lung Surgery page or call his office at 727-312-4844 to book an appointment or for more information. Dr. Mikhail is based in New Port Richey, Florida. He treats patients in Tampa and Clearwater.

This article originally appeared on www.lungcanceralliance.org.

When a loved one finds out they have lung cancer, it can be hard to know how best to help them, what to say or even how they are feeling. Here are some tips to keep in mind when helping a love one through their lung cancer journey.

Take care of yourself. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but it is essential that you find your best support during this journey. You need to be strong and in the best health possible in order to be there for your loved one.
Don’t take it personally. Understand that your loved one is coping with their disease in their own unique way and try not to take things he or she says or does personally.
Respect independence. Your loved one may want to do more for him or herself to prevent burdening you. Go with it and let them as long as it doesn’t negatively impact his or her health.
Don’t change your relationship. When your loved one has cancer, it doesn’t mean that they want to be treated differently or want your relationship to change. Try your best to treat them the way you did before diagnosis.
Be open and direct. At the time of your loved one’s diagnosis, find out exactly what your loved wants throughout every step regarding treatment and support. This way, you will be on the same page and be able to make decisions as a team.

For more tips on your role as a caregiver, click here.

Dr. Peter Mikhail treats patients suffering from lung cancer in the Tampa, Clearwater, and New Port Richey areas of Florida. Call him to book an appointment for an evaluation of condition at 727-312-4844. You may be a good candidate for the da Vinci Surgical System.

This article originally appeared on www.healthline.com

About lung cancer

Lung cancer originates in your lungs but can spread to other parts of your body. Cancer that begins elsewhere but spreads to your lungs isn’t lung cancer.

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), lung cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in the United States. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, but nonsmokers can get it too. The rate of new lung cancer diagnoses has been slowly declining since 2001. According to the NCI, this decline is similar to the decline seen in smoking rates.

Who gets it and why

Anyone can get lung cancer, but certain factors put you at greater risk. Smoking is the number one risk factor. You’re also at increased risk if you have a family history of lung cancer, especially if one of your parents or siblings had it.

Other dangers include exposure to:

secondhand smoke
radon gas
asbestos

Substances like arsenic, nickel, and chromium can also pose a risk. Smokers who are exposed to additional cancer-causing agents are at an even greater risk.

Symptoms

People with early stage lung cancer often are unaware of an issue. As the cancer grows, a chronic cough may develop. Smokers may notice a change in their “smoker’s cough” or may start coughing up blood. Many people report:

hoarseness
wheezing
frequent shortness of breath
chest pain
bone pain
headache

Unexplained weight loss is also a common symptom of cancer.

Diagnostic tools

Imaging tests like an X-ray or CT scan can help diagnose lung cancer. Mucus from your lungs can be analyzed for cancer cells (sputum cytology). Your doctor can also perform a biopsy, taking a tissue sample for analysis under a microscope.

Your doctor can get lung tissue by inserting a needle through your chest and into the lung (needle biopsy). Or they can acquire a lymph node sample with a surgical instrument that’s inserted through an incision at the base of your neck (mediastinoscopy).

Your doctor may also do a bronchoscopy to examine your lungs. In a bronchoscopy, a lighted tube with a small camera attached is passed through your nose, down your throat, and into your lungs.

What “staging” means

Stages describe how far the cancer has progressed and where it has spread. Stage 1 means the tumor is less than 5 centimeters (cm) and hasn’t spread outside the lung. Stage 2 means the tumor is larger than 5 cm. Or it could also mean the tumor is smaller, but nearby tissues like the diaphragm, chest wall, or lymph nodes are affected.

In stage 3, the tumor is larger and has invaded nearby organs. It can also indicate a smaller tumor along with the presence of lung cancer cells in distant lymph nodes. Stage 4 is when cancer spreads to the second lung or more distant areas.

Treatment

Your treatment options depend on details unique to you. Surgery is often necessary to remove the tumor and some surrounding tissue, part of the lung or airways, or the whole lung.

Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout your body. Radiation therapy also kills cancer cells and can target specific areas.

It’s not always possible to know if there are any cancer cells left in your body, so your doctor may recommend a combination of treatments.

Other treatments

Laser therapy uses a narrow beam of light to kill cancer cells, and photodynamic therapy combines laser light with drugs. Cryosurgery freezes and destroys abnormal tissue, and electrocautery treatment uses a needle heated by an electric current to kill cancer cells. Monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors are target therapies that prevent cancer cells from growing.

You may want to ask your doctor about clinical trials used to test newer cancer treatments.

Many people with cancer find comfort in local support groups.

Complications of lung cancer

Shortness of breath and pain can impact your quality of life. Lung cancer can also cause you to cough up blood.

Another complication is fluid accumulating in the area around your lung (pleural effusion). If that happens, you’ll need to have fluid drained from your chest.

A serious complication of lung cancer is metastasis, when cancer spreads to distant areas like the brain, liver, adrenal glands, or bones. Metastatic cancer can cause a wide variety of symptoms, including increased pain. Various treatments can help manage symptoms.

Outlook

Lung cancer can be fatal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. However, it’s important to note that your long-term outlook depends on many factors, including your overall health, age, and choice of treatment. The stage of the cancer at diagnosis is an important factor when considering your outlook. The highest survival rates are for people whose lung cancer is diagnosed during stage 1 or stage 2, so it’s easier to treat if detected early on.

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This article originally appeared on www.cancer.org.

Most lung cancers do not cause any symptoms until they have spread, but some people with early lung cancer do have symptoms. If you go to your doctor when you first notice symptoms, your cancer might be diagnosed at an earlier stage, when treatment is more likely to be effective. The most common symptoms of lung cancer are:

A cough that does not go away or gets worse
Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum (spit or phlegm)
Chest pain that is often worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing
Hoarseness
Weight loss and loss of appetite
Shortness of breath
Feeling tired or weak
Infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia that don’t go away or keep coming back
New onset of wheezing

If lung cancer spreads to distant organs, it may cause:

Bone pain (like pain in the back or hips)
Nervous system changes (such as headache, weakness or numbness of an arm or leg, dizziness, balance problems, or seizures), from cancer spread to the brain or spinal cord
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), from cancer spread to the liver
Lumps near the surface of the body, due to cancer spreading to the skin or to lymph nodes (collections of immune system cells), such as those in the neck or above the collarbone

Most of these symptoms are more likely to be caused by something other than lung cancer. Still, if you have any of these problems, it’s important to see your doctor right away so the cause can be found and treated, if needed.

Some lung cancers can cause syndromes, which are groups of very specific symptoms.

Horner syndrome

Cancers of the top part of the lungs (sometimes called Pancoast tumors) sometimes can affect certain nerves to the eye and part of the face, causing a group of symptoms called Horner syndrome:

Drooping or weakness of one eyelid
A smaller pupil (dark part in the center of the eye) in the same eye
Reduced or absent sweating on the same side of the face
Pancoast tumors can also sometimes cause severe shoulder pain.

Superior vena cava syndrome

The superior vena cava (SVC) is a large vein that carries blood from the head and arms back to the heart. It passes next to the upper part of the right lung and the lymph nodes inside the chest. Tumors in this area can press on the SVC, which can cause the blood to back up in the veins. This can lead to swelling in the face, neck, arms, and upper chest (sometimes with a bluish-red skin color). It can also cause headaches, dizziness, and a change in consciousness if it affects the brain. While SVC syndrome can develop gradually over time, in some cases it can become life-threatening, and needs to be treated right away.

Paraneoplastic syndromes

Some lung cancers can make hormone-like substances that enter the bloodstream and cause problems with distant tissues and organs, even though the cancer has not spread to those tissues or organs. These problems are called paraneoplastic syndromes. Sometimes these syndromes can be the first symptoms of lung cancer. Because the symptoms affect organs other than the lungs, patients and their doctors may suspect at first that a disease other than lung cancer is causing them.

Some of the more common paraneoplastic syndromes associated with lung cancer are:

SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone): In this condition, the cancer cells make a hormone (ADH) that causes the kidneys to retain water. This lowers salt levels in the blood. Symptoms of SIADH can include fatigue, loss of appetite, muscle weakness or cramps, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, and confusion. Without treatment, severe cases may lead to seizures and coma.
Cushing syndrome: In this condition, the cancer cells may make ACTH, a hormone that causes the adrenal glands to secrete cortisol. This can lead to symptoms such as weight gain, easy bruising, weakness, drowsiness, and fluid retention. Cushing syndrome can also cause high blood pressure and high blood sugar levels (or even diabetes).
Nervous system problems: Lung cancer can sometimes cause the body’s immune system to attack parts of the nervous system, which can lead to problems. One example is a muscle disorder called the Lambert-Eaton syndrome, in which the muscles around the hips become weak. One of the first signs may be trouble getting up from a sitting position. Later, muscles around the shoulder may become weak. A rarer problem is paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration, which can cause loss of balance and unsteadiness in arm and leg movement, as well as trouble speaking or swallowing.
High blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia): This can cause frequent urination, thirst, constipation, nausea, vomiting, belly pain, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, and other nervous system problems
Excess growth or thickening of certain bones: This is often in the finger tips, and can be painful.
Blood clots
Excess breast growth in men (gynecomastia)

Again, many of these symptoms are more likely to be caused by something other than lung cancer. Still, if you have any of these problems, it’s important to see your doctor right away so the cause can be found and treated, if needed.

Horner syndrome

Superior vena cava syndrome

Paraneoplastic syndromes

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