Cancer Information

To determine if a patient has, in effect, of cancer, there is a wide variety of tests that the doctor can use. After the initial examination and x-ray, your doctor might order tests on phlegm. Other tests may include:

Bronchoscopy

It is a procedure designed to look inside the airways of the lungs. It involves inserting a thin, flexible tube down the throat into the airways. The tube allows the doctor to look inside. Your doctor might also take samples of tissues and cells (biopsy) during bronchoscopy.

Bronchial biopsy

Bronchial biopsy is performed by inserting a bronchoscope through the larynx of the patient. The bronchoscope is a camera that allows the doctor to see as you enter the unit. The bronchoscope is also a small hole that allows to remove pieces of tissue. These tissues are then sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Mediastinoscopy

This is the procedure that examines the mediastinum. This area is located in the center of the chest, right in the middle of the lungs and contains the heart, blood vessels and lymph nodes.

Needle biopsy

For this procedure, the doctor uses a fine needle to take samples and examine cells under a microscope. This test can be uncomfortable, but only takes a few minutes. The doctor may also use X-rays, CT scan or ultrasound to guide a biopsy needle during outpatient. The biopsy can be performed during surgery.

Wedge biopsy

For this procedure the surgeon makes an incision through the skin and removes a wedge of tissue from the tumor and sent to a lab for analysis. For this procedure, the patient must be under general anesthesia. Sometimes you use this type of biopsy when other biopsy methods have not been able to confirm a diagnosis.

Thoracoscopy (video-assisted VAT)

The doctor may request this procedure to drain fluid from the sac (pleura) that surrounds the lungs, also known as pleural effusion. This procedure can also be used to take samples of lung tissue or lymph nodes in the mediastinum. A tube with a scope on the tip, allows the doctor to see inside your chest. This tube also allows the physician to take samples of fluids, and sent to the pathology laboratory for analysis.

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