What if the breathing tests show that a lobectomy cannot be performed safely?
If a lobectomy cannot be performed safely, another operation called a segementectomy may be considered. A segmentectomy involves removing the tumor along with a segment of surrounding lung. This operation is safer in patients with a limited ability to breathe, because less of the lung is removed. However, the likelihood that the tumor will come back is somewhat higher after this procedure, compared to a lobectomy.
