Diagnostics · Surgery · Radiosurgery · Grade III Class A
Lung cancer treatment in China
Lung cancer is not a single diagnosis but dozens of different situations. Everything depends on accurate diagnostics and the choice of method. Here's what options exist at Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital and how to understand what suits you.
Why it all starts with accurate diagnostics
"Lung cancer" is a general label. Behind it lie different types (non-small-cell, small-cell), different stages and, importantly, different molecular features of the tumor. Two patients with seemingly identical diagnoses may need entirely different treatment.
That's why sound treatment always starts with accurate diagnostics: imaging (CT, PET-CT), histology and molecular-genetic testing, which identifies mutations that targeted drugs may match. Without this step, therapy is chosen blindly.
To assess the case, what's needed is not paper summaries but the original scans in DICOM format. Only these allow precise planning of surgery or radiotherapy.
Which methods are used
At FFCH, lung cancer is treated comprehensively — the method (or combination) is chosen by a multidisciplinary board depending on the tumor's type, stage and location.
Robotic surgery
Tumor removal with the Da Vinci Xi robot — minimally traumatic, with high precision, when surgery is indicated.
CyberKnife radiosurgery
CyberKnife M6 targets the tumor precisely without incisions — including for inoperable tumors and patients for whom surgery is contraindicated.
Activates the body's own immunity against the tumor. Used for certain types of lung cancer based on test results.
Methods are often combined: for example, systemic drug therapy together with local treatment of the tumor. Which strategy fits is determined only by the diagnostic results.
If the tumor is deemed inoperable
This is one of the most alarming phrases a patient hears. It's important to understand: inoperable does not mean there are no options. The tumor may be awkwardly located or surgery may carry too high a risk — but that does not mean there is no treatment.
In such cases, the focus shifts to radiosurgery CyberKnife, which can treat the tumor without incisions, and systemic drug therapy — targeted or immuno-. The decision is always the board's, but "inoperable" itself is a reason not to give up but to get a second opinion.
How it works — the patient's route
Remote assessment. You send documents and scans in DICOM. Within 1–2 business days the FFCH International Department gives a preliminary opinion
A personal protocol in 48 hours. The professors' board prepares a treatment plan and a precise estimate
Arrival and confirmatory diagnostics. On site, additional examination and molecular testing are done if needed
Treatment and follow-up. The chosen method, support from medical interpreters, and documents in English for your doctor at home
Frequently asked questions
The tumor was called inoperable — is that a verdict?
No. Inoperable only means surgery is inadvisable or too risky. There remain CyberKnife radiosurgery and systemic drug therapy. It's worth getting a second opinion from the board.
Why is molecular testing of the tumor needed?
It identifies mutations that targeted drugs are matched to. This allows precise treatment. Some of these drugs are available through the Hong Kong–Macao program.
Which documents should I send for assessment?
Records, test results, histology and, essentially, the original scans (CT/PET-CT) in DICOM format. A precise assessment cannot be made from paper copies.
How much does treatment cost?
The cost is individual and depends on the method and length of treatment. For details on how the estimate is structured, see the article "How much cancer treatment in China costs". A precise estimate is prepared within 48 hours of reviewing the documents.
Official representative of Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital (FFCH). She supports patients at every stage — from reviewing documents to returning home.
This material is for reference only and does not replace a doctor's consultation. The choice of lung cancer treatment depends on the tumor's type, stage and molecular features and is determined by the medical board after reviewing your medical documents.