Thoracic Surgery &
Lung Nodule Care
in Shanghai
Expert evaluation and treatment planning for pulmonary nodules, lung cancer, mediastinal disease, and other complex thoracic conditions.
Many patients receive treatment recommendations before traveling to Shanghai.
Evaluation
Specialists
Case
Review
Hospital
Partners
Invasive
Expertise
Understanding Your Findings
We evaluate a wide range of thoracic conditions.
Pulmonary Nodules
Incidental findings, solitary nodule, multiple nodules, intermediate risk
Ground-Glass Nodules (GGN)
Persistent GGNs, recurrent lesions, and recommendations
Lung Cancer
Evaluation of early-stage cancer for complex cases
Mediastinal Disease
Mass, thymoma, and other mediastinal compartment pathology
Pleural Conditions
Pleural effusion, thickening, and recurrent pneumothorax
How Specialists Evaluate Thoracic Conditions
A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.
Imaging Review
- CT characteristics
- Growth patterns
- Location, density, margins
Risk Assessment
- Symptoms
- Smoking history
- Family history, prior imaging
Multidisciplinary Review
- Thoracic Surgery
- Pulmonology
- Oncology, Radiology, Pathology
Additional Testing
- PET/CT
- Biopsy
- Pulmonary function testing
When Is Surgery Recommended?
Treatment decisions are based on your individual risk and clinical findings.
Finding
Observation / Imaging
Additional Evaluation
Treatment Recommendation
Surgical Consideration
Observation May Be Appropriate When
- Stable imaging
- Low-risk findings
- Small lesions
Minimally Invasive Surgery May Be Considered When
- Early-stage disease
- Localized findings
- Resectable lesions
Open Surgery May Be Needed When
- Complex anatomy
- Advanced disease
- Extensive resection requirements
Treatment Approaches
Personalized treatment plans for every patient.
Pulmonary Nodules
Observation, repeat imaging, biopsy, or surgical removal based on nodule characteristics and risk.
Lung Cancer Surgery
Segmentectomy, lobectomy, and lymph node assessment using minimally invasive or open techniques.
Mediastinal Disease
Surgical evaluation and combined specialty care for complex mediastinal conditions.
Pleural Disease
Drainage procedures, surgical treatment, and long-term management of pleural conditions.
Minimally Invasive and Open Surgical Approaches
The right surgical approach depends on your condition.
Minimally Invasive Surgery (VATS / RATS / Robotic)
- Smaller incisions
- Reduced pain
- Shorter recovery
- Earlier discharge
Open Thoracic Surgery
- Complex cases
- Larger resections
- Advanced disease
How Surgical Approach Is Determined
Tumor size
Location
Disease complexity
Prior treatment
Patient condition
Recovery and Travel Planning
We support you throughout your treatment journey.
Before Arrival
- Remote review
- Treatment planning
- Travel preparation
During Treatment
- Consultation
- Preoperative care
- Inpatient stay
Recovery Phase
- Follow-up
- Recovery monitoring
- Discharge planning
Returning Home
- Digital records
- Remote follow-up
- Plans recovery
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Typical Stay
1–2 Weeks
1–2 Weeks
Open / Complex Surgery
Typical Stay
Approximately 4 Weeks
Approximately 4 Weeks
Remote Specialist Review Process
Our specialists review your records and provide recommendations.
Submit Imaging
Specialist Review
Treatment Recommendation
Cost Estimate
Travel Planning
Hospital Coordination
Recommendations are often provided before travel whenever appropriate.
Why Patients Choose Care in Shanghai
- Multidisciplinary clinical expertise
- High surgical volume and experience
- Advanced minimally invasive technology
- Comprehensive cancer care
- International patient support
- Efficient coordination and communication
Meet the Clinical Team
Experienced specialists assembled for the best outcomes.
Thoracic Surgeons
Experts in minimally invasive and robotic surgery for complex thoracic cancers
Pulmonologists
Specialists in respiratory medicine and lung disease evaluation
Medical Oncologists
Providing personalized cancer treatment plans and long-term surveillance
Radiology & Pathology
Advanced imaging interpretation and precise pathological diagnosis
Our team works together to deliver the highest standard of care.
Medical Records to Prepare
Upload securely through our patient portal before your arrival.
Upload Records for ReviewFrequently Asked Questions
Is every lung nodule cancer?
No, most lung nodules are benign. Only a small percentage (<5%) are malignant, especially in non-smokers.
Do all nodules require surgery?
Not all nodules require surgery. Small, stable nodules may only need periodic imaging follow-up.
How often should imaging be repeated?
Follow-up intervals depend on nodule size and risk factors, typically every 3–12 months.
What size of nodule is concerning?
Nodules larger than 8 mm are considered more suspicious and may require further evaluation.
Can smoking cause lung nodules?
Yes, smoking increases the risk of developing lung nodules and lung cancer significantly.
Are lung nodules common?
Yes, up to 50% of people who undergo chest CT scans are found to have at least one nodule.
How are lung nodules detected?
They are most commonly detected incidentally on chest X-rays or CT scans performed for other reasons.
Do lung nodules cause symptoms?
Most lung nodules are asymptomatic. Larger nodules may cause cough or chest discomfort.
What follow-up is needed for benign nodules?
Benign nodules typically require surveillance CT scans at 6–12 month intervals to confirm stability.
Can lung nodules disappear on their own?
Some benign nodules, especially those caused by infection, may shrink or resolve over time without treatment.
Is a biopsy always needed?
Not always. Biopsy is recommended for nodules with suspicious features on imaging or when growth is detected.
Are there different types of lung nodules?
Yes, they include solid nodules, ground-glass opacities (GGO), and part-solid nodules, each with different risk profiles.
What is a ground-glass nodule (GGN)?
A GGN is a hazy area on CT that does not obscure underlying lung structures. It may be benign or early-stage cancer.
Can nodules be removed without surgery?
Yes, some nodules can be treated with non-surgical techniques like radiofrequency ablation or radiation.
What does nodule growth mean?
Growth over time increases suspicion for malignancy and often warrants biopsy or surgical removal.
What is the recovery time after thoracic surgery?
Typical hospital stay is 3–7 days. Full recovery may take 4–8 weeks depending on the procedure.
Is robotic surgery available for lung cancer?
Yes, robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) is available and offers precise, minimally invasive resection.
What are the risks of lung surgery?
Risks include bleeding, infection, air leaks, and complications from anesthesia. These are minimized by experienced teams.
How long does thoracic surgery take?
Most thoracic surgeries take 1–4 hours depending on the complexity and whether it is minimally invasive.
Will I need a chest tube after surgery?
Yes, a chest tube is typically placed to drain air and fluid. It is usually removed within 1–3 days after surgery.
When can I return to normal activities?
Light activities can resume after 2 weeks; full activity takes 6–8 weeks. Your surgeon will provide guidelines.
What is VATS surgery?
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera.
Do I need to stop smoking before surgery?
Yes, stopping smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery significantly reduces complication risks.
How is lung function assessed before surgery?
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and sometimes a cardiopulmonary exercise test are used to assess fitness for surgery.
Typical hospital stay?
Most patients stay 3–7 days after thoracic surgery; minimally invasive procedures may require fewer days.
When can I travel home?
Travel within 2–4 weeks post-surgery is generally safe. Long-haul flights should be discussed with your doctor.
What pain management options are available?
Options include oral pain medications, nerve blocks, and epidural analgesia tailored to your needs.
When can I resume exercise?
Walking can begin immediately. Strenuous exercise should wait 6–8 weeks. Follow your surgeon's guidance.
Do I need physical therapy?
Breathing exercises and light physiotherapy are often recommended to aid lung expansion and recovery.
How long until I can drive?
Driving is usually safe after 2–4 weeks, once you are free from pain medications and can react comfortably.
What dietary changes are recommended?
A balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins supports healing. Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals.
When can I return to work?
Desk work may resume in 2–4 weeks. Physically demanding jobs may require 6–12 weeks off.
What signs of complications should I watch for?
Fever, worsening pain, shortness of breath, or wound redness require immediate medical attention.
Will I need help at home after discharge?
Most patients benefit from assistance with daily activities for the first 1–2 weeks after returning home.
Can I swim or bathe after surgery?
Avoid swimming or soaking in baths until your incisions are fully healed, typically 2–4 weeks post-surgery.
How often are follow-up appointments needed?
Typically at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery, then annually thereafter.
How accurate are imaging tools?
High-resolution CT and PET-CT offer >90% diagnostic accuracy for evaluating thoracic conditions.
When should I seek a specialist review?
If you have an indeterminate nodule, persistent symptoms, or a family history of lung cancer, a specialist review is advised.
Can you review my case before I travel?
Yes, we offer remote case review. Upload your records and our specialists will evaluate prior to travel.
How do I prepare for traveling abroad?
Ensure you have a valid passport, visa (if required), medical records, and travel insurance. Our team can assist.
What translation services are available?
Professional medical interpreters are available in multiple languages during consultations and procedures.
How do I arrange international appointments?
Our international patient coordinators can arrange appointments, travel, and accommodation for you.
What support is available for travel arrangements?
We provide airport pickup, hotel booking assistance, and dedicated patient liaison services.
Can I have virtual follow-ups after returning home?
Yes, telemedicine follow-ups are available for international patients after they return home.
What documents do I need for international travel?
A valid passport, medical visa (if required), medical records, and a referral letter from your local physician.
What insurance plans are accepted?
We accept most major international insurance plans. Our team can verify coverage before your visit.
How do I pay for medical services?
We accept wire transfers, major credit cards, and direct insurance billing for international patients.
Can a family member accompany me?
Yes, family members are welcome. We can assist with accommodation and visa arrangements for companions.
Have more questions?
Our care team is here to help you.
Our care team is here to help you.