Oncology

Lung Cancer Treatment in Istanbul

Lung cancer is divided into two main groups, non-small cell (NSCLC) and small cell (SCLC), and treatment depends on this distinction, the stage and the molecular features of the tumour. Smoking is the most important risk factor. New City Clinic coordinates assessment and treatment with the oncology teams of its partner hospitals in Istanbul.

Assessment and diagnosis

Before a treatment plan is made, the type and stage of the disease are established. This usually involves:

  • Chest CT and PET-CT for staging
  • Bronchoscopy, EBUS (endobronchial ultrasound) or CT-guided biopsy
  • Pathology and molecular (genetic) testing, including PD-L1
  • Brain MRI and lung function tests where needed

Treatment approaches

The tumour board plans treatment according to the type and stage of the cancer, the molecular test results, your lung capacity and your general health. In early-stage non-small cell cancer, removal of the affected lobe (lobectomy) is usually preferred, and this is often done by keyhole (VATS) or robotic surgery. For early-stage patients who cannot have surgery, stereotactic radiotherapy is an option. Locally advanced disease is treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy together, followed by immunotherapy where indicated. In cancer that has spread, targeted therapy is used if the tumour carries a targetable genetic change; otherwise immunotherapy and chemotherapy are used. Small cell cancer is usually treated with chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiotherapy.

  • Lobectomy, often by keyhole (VATS) or robotic surgery
  • Radiotherapy, including stereotactic radiotherapy
  • Chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy
  • Targeted therapy and immunotherapy

The tumour board decides which methods are used and in what order. The treatment plan is determined after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests.

For patients from Europe, the Middle East and Africa

New City Clinic coordinates oncology care for patients travelling from European countries, the Middle East and Africa. Istanbul has direct flights from many capitals in these regions, and the assessment starts from your reports before you travel.

  • You can send your reports in English or in your own language; the necessary translations are arranged.
  • Check the visa or e-visa requirements for your passport on the official Turkish government website (evisa.gov.tr); once your treatment is planned, your appointment is confirmed in writing by the hospital.
  • Airport welcome, accommodation close to the hospital and arrangements for a companion are organised.
  • Your treatment summary is prepared in English so that you can share it with your oncologist at home.

Partner hospitals with oncology centres

Oncology care is coordinated at the following partner hospitals, which have oncology centres. The hospital is chosen according to your condition, your physician and your preference.

How the process works

  1. 1

    Send your documents

    Pathology report, imaging reports and images, discharge summaries and a list of your medication.

  2. 2

    Physician’s review

    Your file goes to the relevant oncology physician; missing tests and a possible pathway are set out for you in writing.

  3. 3

    Plan and quote

    The expected tests, treatment steps, length of stay and itemised costs are given in writing.

  4. 4

    Treatment in Istanbul

    Airport welcome, accommodation, appointments and interpreting are organised by New City Clinic.

  5. 5

    Follow-up

    You receive your treatment summary and reports to share with your physician at home.

Frequently asked questions

Why are molecular tests so important?

Some non-small cell lung cancers carry specific genetic changes that can be treated with targeted drugs, often taken as tablets. That is why molecular tests are done on the biopsy tissue before treatment is chosen.

Can I send my previous biopsy and scans?

Yes. CT and PET-CT images, pathology reports and, where possible, the biopsy blocks are shared with the teams for a preliminary review; any additional tests can be done in Istanbul.

When can I fly after surgery?

After lung surgery the lung must be fully re-expanded before air travel; your surgeon decides when you can fly after a check-up and a chest X-ray.

Which documents should I send?

The pathology report, CT/MRI/PET-CT reports and, if possible, the images themselves, operation and discharge reports, blood tests and your medication list.

Can you give any assurance about the outcome?

No. No institution can guarantee the result of cancer treatment. Your physician will explain expectations and risks for your situation openly.

How is the cost determined?

It depends on the tests required and on the type and length of treatment. An itemised written quote follows the physician’s assessment.

Other cancer types

Back to the oncology section

This page is for general information and is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. A treatment plan is determined only after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests. In an emergency, contact your local medical services.

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