Thoracic Cancer

At the Baystate Regional Cancer Program, our comprehensive approach to treating thoracic cancers means a better outcome for you.

We treat some of the most prevalent and hard to treat thoracic cancers. Our experienced team uses the latest technology and surgical techniques for both the diagnosis and treatment of cancer found in the:

• Esophagus
• Chest wall
• Lungs
• Pleura (area around the lungs)

In addition, our thoracic cancer specialists work in conjunction with your gastroenterologist to evaluate and find the best possible treatment for precancerous conditions, including Barrett’s esophagus and other cancerous lesions in the esophagus.

We also offer the region’s only Lung Cancer CT Screening Program, offering the potential to save the lives of people at high risk for lung cancer by finding cancer early, when it is easier to treat.

Thoracic Cancer Treatments

When possible, our surgeons use minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which involves small incisions and tiny cameras and tools, so that you can recover faster and with less pain.

In some cases, our surgeons are able to treat locally advanced lung and esophageal cancers using complex lung sparing procedures, and perform complicated chest wall resections with reconstruction, minimizing the trauma often associated with these procedures. Learn more about thoracic surgery.

Baystate’s radiation oncologists offer therapies such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), the latest treatment option for patients with inoperable but early-stage lung cancer.

Medical oncologists may also be part of your care team if chemotherapy is part of your treatment plan.

Palliative Care

Baystate’s thoracic surgeons are also experienced with palliative care procedures. These surgical procedures can help reduce the effects of certain types of cancer.

Palliative care is complex and requires an interactive approach. It may be appropriate at any time and stage of a patient’s care.

For example, our surgeons can help manage malignant pleural effusions (a complication of lung cancer), provide treatment, and improve quality of life for patients with lung or esophageal cancer. This may include airway and esophageal stenting to help with breathing and swallowing.