The method is specific for treating patients with small lung tumors located deep within the lungs. These tumors often arise in the smaller airways or in the lung tissue itself.
Safe and effective
In this new (day) treatment, the pulmonologist inserts a thin tube (bronchoscope) through the airway into the tumor. An X-ray scan (cone beam) identifies the location of the lung tumor. Microwaves then heat and destroy the tumor cells. This new technique makes it possible to treat tumors safely and effectively, without major surgery. This is especially good news for patients with small lung tumors who are ineligible for surgery because of their health condition.
A look to the future
Amsterdam UMC is working toward a future in which patients are spared as much discomfort as possible. The development of new, less stressful treatment methods for lung cancer is part of scientific research that Amsterdam UMC is therefore conducting, together with the Royal Brompton Hospital in London.
In addition, Amsterdam UMC is focusing on the so-called “one-stop-shop” model, in which the diagnosis and treatment of early-stage lung cancer could in the future take place in a single session. This would mean that patients would then no longer have to undergo multiple examinations and procedures.
Lung team in action
