Follow us on
Search
Close this search box.

Segmentectomy/Wedge Resection

medical tourism Segmentectomy Wedge Resection

Medical tourism for segmentectomy and wedge resection offers patients a cost-effective way to access high-quality lung surgery abroad. Many countries, including Turkey, India, and Thailand, provide these procedures at a fraction of Western prices—often 50-70% lower—while maintaining high standards through JCI-accredited hospitals and skilled thoracic surgeons.

ImageTreatmentCategoryHospital/ClinicDoctorCountryCityVisaHotelTransferTranslatorLanguagePricehf:tax:product_cathf:att:pa_countryhf:att:pa_cityhf:att:pa_visahf:att:pa_hotelhf:att:pa_transferhf:att:pa_translatorhf:att:pa_language

Segmentectomy vs. Wedge Resection

Lung cancer and other pulmonary conditions often require surgical interventions like segmentectomy and wedge resection. While both are lung-sparing procedures, they differ in scope, technique, and patient suitability. This guide explores their differences, benefits, and clinical applications.

What Is a Segmentectomy?

segmentectomy is the removal of one or more anatomic lung segments (functional units with their own blood vessels and airways).

Indications:

  • Early-stage NSCLC (Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer)
  • Small tumors (<2 cm) with limited spread
  • Patients with compromised lung function

Advantages:

  • Preserves more lung tissue than lobectomy
  • Lower morbidity vs. larger resections
  • Maintains pulmonary function

Disadvantages:

  • Technically complex (requires precise dissection)
  • Risk of incomplete tumor margins

What Is a Wedge Resection?

wedge resection removes a small, wedge-shaped portion of lung tissue (non-anatomic, without following segmental borders).

Indications:

  • Diagnostic biopsies
  • Small peripheral nodules
  • High-risk patients (poor lung function)

Advantages:

  • Minimally invasive (often VATS-assisted)
  • Shorter recovery time
  • Lower complication rates

Disadvantages:

  • Higher local recurrence risk (limited margins)
  • Not ideal for central tumors

FeatureSegmentectomyWedge Resection
AnatomyFollows segmental boundariesNon-anatomic
Tumor SizeSuitable for larger lesionsBest for small peripheral nodules
ComplexityMore technically demandingSimpler and faster
RecurrenceLower riskHigher risk
Lung FunctionBetter preservationMinimal impact

1. Which is better: segmentectomy or wedge resection?

Segmentectomy offers better oncologic outcomes for early-stage cancer, while wedge resection suits high-risk patients or diagnostics.

2. Is VATS used in these procedures?

Yes! Both can be performed via Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) for minimally invasive benefits.

3. How long is recovery after wedge resection?

Typically 1–2 weeks, vs. 2–4 weeks for segmentectomy.

Conclusion

Choosing between segmentectomy and wedge resection depends on tumor size, location, and patient health. Segmentectomy provides better cancer control, while wedge resection is quicker and less invasive. Consult a thoracic surgeon for personalized care.