lung cancer screening

​​​​​Lung Nodule Clinic

Early detection of lung cancer is crucial to achieving the best outcomes. That’s why our lung nodule clinic provides patients with suspected or identified lung nodules the most effective testing, tools and resources. 

What is a Lung Nodule?

A lung (or pulmonary) nodule is a small round- or oval-shaped growth in the lung, usually found incidentally on a chest x-ray or CT scan. Lung nodules often cause no symptoms; therefore, usually go undetected without advanced testing. 

While more than 90 percent of lung nodules are benign or not cancerous, some nodules may be an early stage of lung cancer. Nodules also may indicate a more advanced lung cancer where cancer has spread from another part of the body to the affected lung. 

What happens if you have a lung nodule?

If your physician finds a lung nodule on an x-ray or CT scan, you may be referred to the lung nodule clinic for further examination. Our lung nurse navigator will review all details of what to expect with you ahead of your appointment.

Next Steps

Our multidisciplinary lung care team is deeply committed to providing you with the most experienced and personalized care. Most lung nodules only need ongoing monitoring while others may require immediate next steps. 

Our experts will guide you through the most effective approach based on your results. Please feel free at any time during your visit to ask any questions you may have and it is our goal that you complete your appointment with a solid understanding of the next step in your care. 

Patients who have one or more lung nodules may undergo a robotic bronchoscopy. This advanced, minimally invasive technology helps doctors visualize and test small, potentially cancerous nodules in hard-to-reach areas of the lung. 

Treatment Guidelines

Utilizing The Fleischner Society Guidelines— considered best practice for pulmonary nodule management—a strategy and treatment plan will be coordinated, together with the patient and communicated with their primary care provider.