Anyone had sugery for non small cell lung cancer? Did you follow up with chemo or radiation? What happened?

Trying to decide whether to go through chemo or ,radiation. Doctor removed entire lobe on left side,and told us he thinks he got it all... Tumor was about 21/2 centimeters,on the outside edge of the lobe.

Ask the oncologist what the five year survival rates are for 100 people who take the chemo vs 100 people who don't take the chemo and 100 people who take the radiation vs 100 people who don't take the radiation...then decide from there...they usually have stats on this...sometimes you can find them online too if you know your type of cancer and the stage of the cancer...search online under say "non small cell lung cancer prognosis"

If you are interested in clinical trials for non-small cell lung cancer, here is the list of current clinical trials for that....hit map button for local trials ...and don't forget to turn pages...
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct/search;...

I would go ahead with the treatment. Cancer is one of those things that has little tiny fingers that can hook on and are left behind. I am sure you Dr. did a great job and got all that he could see but I would want to be safe and do the treatments to get the little ones that may be there and are not visible. Usually treatment for this is less harsh and recovery is pretty uncomplicated. I would rather be safe than sorry!!

If it was me,I would have the radiation/chemo.Think of it as an extra insurance.The surgeon may have got it all but,if only one small cell is left,chances are it will come back.The radiation /chemo will sterilize any small cells that could be left.I will admit, the chemo for lung cancer does make you feel quite bad.The other thing to ask your Radiation Oncologist is how much lung is being treated and how will it effect your lung capacity.Radiation will scar your normal lung so this is something to consider.The other choice is dont do radiation/chemo and if it does return,then have it as a treatment.Make sure if you use this option that you have checkups regularly as you want to catch it early. Good luck my friend.

Hi my Uncle had this type of cancer and also had part of his lung removed as well, he went with the radiation...this was 15 yrs ago and he is still here!! My Mom was diagnosed with the same thing 4 1/2 yrs ago (kind of makes you wonder if it is hereditary?)....her tumor was too close to her heart, they did a radiation cycle, then chemo hoping to shrink the tumor enough to do the surgery.....8 agonizing months later she passed away...it spread. do what you think is right for you! and what you can handle...I wish you the very best in your recovery!!!!!!!!! =))