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Lung Surgery (Thoracotomy)

Three types of lung surgery differ by how much lung tissue is removed.

  • Wedge resection (also called a segmentectomy): A wedge-shaped section of the affected lung is removed.
  • Lobectomy: The affected lobe of the lung is removed.
  • Pneumonectomy: The entire affected lung is removed.
By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Michael Seth Rabin, MD - Medical Oncology
Last Revised May 27, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 27, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

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