RATS

Hi Mam37, Sorry I do not have any personal experience with this. I have searched the site, and there is a member who was also asking about this a couple of months ago, although they haven't posted recently. I will tag them in the hope they see the post.

NOTSOSUREABOUTTHIS did you have the Robotic Assisted Lung cancer surgery, I know you have mentioned it in a previous post. Are you able to share your experience with Mam37? 

I had robotic assisted lung surgery in early August. The surgeon removed a section of a lobe and I was out 5 days later. This was at St Bartholomews Hospital in London. Because of where I live I  was referred there automatically via the NHS, 

There were two of us in the ward after surgery. The other person had a really straightforward time. She phoned me a few weeks after discharge to say she had been given the all clear and was about to go on holiday.

Things aren't quite so straightforward for me. My wounds got infected, I have broken a rib and I'm still quite breathless. Oh, and i probably have to have the rest of my lobe out (if I am fit enough) because my biopsy suggests cancer cells may have started to move in. 

The thing is that, even with complications, RATS is amazing and I do feel that I have been  really fortunate to have been offered this option.

I hope this helps.

Hi, and thanks for your response. I have not been offered RATS but have heard it’s merits.  I am in Yorkshire and cannot seem to find out whether it could be available for me. I am awaiting lobectomy plus removal of affected lymph. Very fearful of op.  Thank you again and wishing you all the best with  your further treatments go well for you. 

I think that Robot assisted surgery is not widely available. It's pretty new and they are still evaluating it. 

I think that quite a few places do use video assisted key hole surgery though, and that seems to have many of the same advantages. According to their website Leeds Teaching Hospital offers this to suitable patients. It might be worth asking if this procedure is available in your area. 

Waiting is really hard, but it will be over before you know it. Take care. I hope all goes well for you whatever treatment you are offered.

I had VATS surgery 5 weeks ago, the worst part was the wait leading up to surgery and I completely understand your anxiety and fears, I felt the same. The other ladies (patients) on my ward were amazing and supportive and I was surprised that they were walking around the day after surgery but they get you up and about quickly.  The nurses and medical teams are just amazing and are there for you every step of the way.  I am now out cycling every weekend doing between 4 and 9 miles!    Wishing you all the best, you’ll be fine….