As part of Lung Cancer Awareness Month and our This is Lung Cancer campaign, we’re shining a light on the incredible advances transforming lung cancer treatment today. This week, our focus is on robotic-assisted surgery — a rapidly growing, highly precise surgical approach that is helping many people receive safer, less invasive treatment.
While lung cancer remains one of the UK’s most common and serious cancers, progress is happening. Surgical innovation is a major part of that progress, and we want to make sure people understand what these developments mean for them and their loved ones.
What is robotic-assisted surgery?
RAS allows surgeons to remove tumours using state-of-the-art robotic systems. The surgeon controls every movement, guided by a magnified 3D view and instruments designed to move with incredible precision.
Despite the name, this is not surgery performed by robots. It is carried out by highly skilled thoracic surgeons, using advanced technology to operate through tiny incisions.
Why we’re spotlighting it
Awareness of this type of surgery is still low. Many people facing lung cancer do not know it exists. Others are unsure if they are eligible or do not feel confident asking their medical team about it.
During our spotlight week, we want to change that.
We’re highlighting robotic-assisted surgery because:
- It can offer quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery
- Patients often experience less pain and smaller scars
- The technology helps surgeons operate with exceptional accuracy
- More NHS centres across the UK are adopting robotic systems, improving access
- Real people are benefitting right now, and their stories deserve to be heard
Not everyone will be suitable, and not every hospital offers robotic-assisted surgery yet — but understanding the option is empowering.
What to expect during the spotlight week
Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing a range of content to help demystify robotic-assisted lung surgery and bring real experiences to the forefront:
Patient stories
Hear from people who have undergone robotic-assisted lung surgery. First, what the procedure was like. How they felt before and after. And most importantly, the impact it had on their recovery.
Expert video guides
Hear from Miss Stephanie Fraser, consultant thoracic surgeon at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust as she explains how the technology works, who may benefit, and why the adoption of robotic systems is growing across the UK.
New information
Our new robotic-assisted lung surgery booklet and bronchoscopy factsheet are here. They explain what the procedures involve, the possible benefits and risks, and what to expect at each stage.
Dedicated Talk of Hope podcast
Joining us for a special edition of Talk of Hope is Miss Stephanie Fraser, a consultant thoracic surgeon at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and Samantha Knight, who underwent robotic-assisted surgery in 2023.
Why this matters
Technology is changing lung cancer treatment.
Minimally invasive procedures, like robotic-assisted surgery, mean people can often go home sooner. They may face fewer complications and recover more quickly. For many, this brings a little more hope during an incredibly difficult time.
Our This is Lung Cancer campaign shows the real picture of lung cancer. The challenges. The realities. And the progress.
Robotic-assisted surgery is one of the clearest signs that care is improving.
Join us
Follow our channels throughout the week, share our content, and help raise awareness of the innovations changing lung cancer treatment.
Together we can ensure more people understand their options. We can bring hope to more families.
Together, we can show the world: This is Lung Cancer — and progress is happening.
This is Lung Cancer has been sponsored by Intuitive Surgical Ltd, GSK, Bristol Myers Squibb, Roche, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Boehringer Ingelheim AstraZeneca and J&J. Intuitive Surgical Ltd, GSK, Bristol Myers Squibb, Roche, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Boehringer Ingelheim, AstraZeneca and J&j have had no editorial input and are not responsible for the content or opinions expressed as part of this activity.