Multidisciplinary Lung Nodule Program
The 华体会 Multidisciplinary Lung Nodule Program specializes in the evaluation, risk assessment and management of pulmonary (lung) nodules detected on imaging. The program鈥檚 mission is to provide evidence-based, timely and personalized care for patients with lung nodules.
Patients are typically referred to us by their physician if imaging shows lung nodules, or 鈥渟pots,鈥� or enlarged lymph nodes in the chest. These findings can have many causes and may not necessarily be cancerous. We also see patients who are looking for a second opinion after having imaging and consulting with another physician.
To avoid any delay in care, our multidisciplinary team of specialists in pulmonology, interventional pulmonology, thoracic surgery and thoracic radiology work together closely to evaluate your lung findings and identify the next best step. We are highly experienced in providing detailed recommendations, state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques and thorough follow-up plans to help ensure our patients receive excellent medical care.
What to Expect
- If you had any prior scans outside of 华体会, we will request those imaging studies to be sent to us prior to your appointment so our physicians can review them in advance. This will make your visit as efficient and informative as possible.
- Based on your imaging, you will be matched to a specialist who can best carry out a plan that is most suitable for your needs. This may include a follow-up CT scan or a diagnostic intervention. You will meet with that specialist during your appointment.
- At the conclusion of your appointment, you will be informed of the follow-up plan in detail.
- Many lung nodules need continued surveillance over time, or 鈥渨atchful waiting.鈥� Occasionally, additional noninvasive testing is needed. If this was recommended to you, you and your physician will discuss how frequently you will need to return, and our team will help you set up the necessary follow-up imaging and appointments.
- Some imaging may suggest the need for a minimally invasive biopsy or surgery to determine a diagnosis. Your physician will work with you to determine the best procedure based on your imaging and personal needs.
- If a cancer diagnosis is confirmed, we can expedite referrals to thoracic specialists in medical and radiation oncology as well as minimally invasive thoracic surgery.
Meet the Teams
Conditions
- Airway Obstruction (Malignant or Benign)
- Complications from Previous Intubation Procedures
- Foreign Body Aspiration
- Lung Cancer
- Lung Nodules
- Tracheal or Bronchial Stenos
Treatments
- Bronchial Thermoplasty
- Bronchoscopy
- Chest Tube
- Endobronchial Stent Placement
- Lung and Pleural Ultrasound
- Pleurodesis
- Pleuroscopy
- Thoracentesis
- Tracheostomy
- Tunneled Pleural Catheter Placement
- Zephyr® Valve
Locations & Contact Information
Northwestern Memorial Hospital
No. 12 in Pulmonology & Lung Surgery
华体会 Lake Forest Hospital
No. 50 in Pulmonology & Lung Surgery
Friends and Family Lung Cancer Screening Program
The 华体会 Friends & Family Lung Cancer Screening Program aims to expand our Lung Cancer Screening Program to our patients鈥� friends and family members who may be at risk for lung cancer based on factors outside of the national screening guidelines.
Lung Cancer Screening Program
The 华体会 Lung Cancer Screening Program specializes in the imaging evaluation and follow-up of patients at high risk for lung cancer.
华体会 Lake Forest Hospital Lung Nodule Program
The clinical experts at 华体会 Lake Forest Hospital provide prompt diagnosis and individualized treatment plans for patients with lung nodules, lung cancer and other types of lung diseases.
Patient Education and Resources
- Understanding Lung Nodules
- Lung Cancer Screening: Understanding Your Results
- Tobacco Cessation Resources: