Surgery is a common part of cancer treatment, but it often leaves cancer cells behind. At UPMC Passavant Hospital, new technology is helping save lives. Nancy Barton, a cancer survivor battling lung cancer, received surgery from Dr. Ryan Levy and Dr. Nicholas Baker. With a new injectable dye, they were able to illuminate cancer spots on Barton’s lungs, giving them a clear target during surgery.
This innovative dye allowed doctors to remove specific cancer spots, preserving more of Barton’s lungs and improving her quality of life post-surgery. This technology is a breakthrough in early detection and treatment of cancer. Barton is grateful to have had this option and hopes others facing a cancer diagnosis will explore all available treatment options to find the best solution for them.
The doctors at UPMC compare finding cancer spots in the lungs to finding a marble in a large sponge – the dye acts as a bright green marker, making it easier to identify and remove cancerous lesions. Barton’s successful surgery and recovery are a testament to the power of new technology in fighting cancer. With advancements like this, doctors hope to achieve even earlier detection and improved outcomes for patients in the future.