Leading the way in lung cancer treatment

Lung cancer is by far the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., accounting for about one in five cancer deaths. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. But there are new options in lung cancer surgery being pioneered by Main Line Health specialists.

Patrick Ross, MD, PhD, a thoracic surgeon specializing in robot-assisted surgical treatment of thoracic (chest) cancers, is one of a select set of surgeons chosen to evaluate the latest advance in minimally invasive thoracic surgery — robotic surgery through a single small incision (port). He and the others were chosen based on their pioneering expertise in robot-assisted treatment of thoracic diseases.

Minimally invasive robotic techniques for thoracic surgery

“As someone who’s done thoracic surgery for more than 30 years, I’m in awe of how far we’ve come,” says Dr. Ross. “We once had to create large incisions and spread the ribs to get to a tumor. Robotic surgery established the value of minimally invasive thoracic surgery. Now, we can use a robotic bronchoscope to detect and evaluate tumors, then reach the tumor through a 3-centimeter incision that enters the chest below rather than between the ribs, and safely remove part of the lung — with the patient going home the next day. That’s like Star Wars for thoracic surgeons.”

Dr. Ross and his team began performing single-port robotic thoracic surgery in November 2024, following early evidence that it is safe and effective when used by an experienced thoracic surgical team. They have successfully removed lung tumors without complications in people with known cancer as well as people who had undiagnosed lung cancer. Most patients are discharged the day after surgery and report minimal pain after these operations.

“Even our delightful 82-year-old was discharged the morning after her operation,” Dr. Ross says. “It truly has had a significant impact.”

Reducing pain and risks in lung cancer treatment

Patients undergoing single-port robotic thoracic surgery have only one 3-cm to 4-cm incision below the ribs, resulting in less postoperative pain, lower risk of nerve injury and quicker return to normal life or additional cancer treatment, Dr. Ross explains.

“When we combine single-port robotic thoracic surgery with robotic bronchoscopy, we can find and remove the tumor in a single operation, with only one anesthesia,” Dr. Ross adds. “Robotic bronchoscopy was a game-changer because it enabled us to locate and diagnose even the tiniest and most difficult-to-reach tumors. Now we can remove them with less risk and trauma to the patient. This technology is changing the outlook on lung cancer in a dramatic way.”

Early detection with low-dose CT lung cancer screenings

Low-dose CT lung cancer screenings are finding tumors earlier, when they are more treatable. If you are a current or former smoker, you may be eligible for this screening. A physician’s prescription is required, so talk with your doctor if you are interested in getting screened. Once you have a prescription in hand, you can schedule a screening. At Main Line Health, we offer numerous lung cancer screening locations throughout the region.

In many cases, lung cancer screening is covered by insurance. There may be a fee, however, depending on which insurance you have. To determine whether a fee would apply, you will need to contact your insurance company in advance to see if lung cancer screening is covered by your plan.

Next steps:

Make an appointment with Patrick Ross Jr., MD, PHD
Learn more about lung cancer care at Main Line Health
Can a lung cancer screening save your life?