Lung Clinic FAQs

Mr Adrian Pick specialises in thoracic surgery, a field dedicated to conditions affecting the lungs and chest. Common conditions we manage include:

• Lung cancer (early and advanced stages)
• Lung nodules or masses needing further investigation or removal
• Mediastinal tumours such as thymomas or cysts
• Collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or persistent air leaks
• Pleural conditions like pleural effusion or thickening

Mr Pick brings extensive training and expertise in both traditional and minimally invasive thoracic surgery, ensuring patients receive precise, personalised care using the most advanced techniques available.

A lobectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one lobe of the lung. The lungs have several lobes—three on the right, two on the left—and removing a single lobe is often the recommended treatment for early-stage lung cancer or severely damaged lung tissue.

In some cases, particularly for smaller tumours, a segmentectomy (removal of a smaller section of lung) may be considered to preserve more lung function. Mr Pick will work closely with you and your care team to determine the most appropriate option based on your diagnosis, lung function, and overall health.

The mediastinum is the central compartment of the chest, situated between the lungs. It contains the heart, major blood vessels, thymus gland, lymph nodes, and portions of the trachea and oesophagus.

Mediastinal surgery involves removing or taking biopsies of growths in this area—such as thymomas, cysts, or enlarged lymph nodes—which may be benign or malignant. Surgery may be recommended for diagnosis, symptom relief, or as part of cancer treatment. Mr Pick uses advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques to safely access and treat mediastinal conditions while minimising recovery time.

There are two main surgical approaches:

• Traditional Thoracotomy: An open procedure involving a larger incision between the ribs. It provides excellent access but usually requires a longer hospital stay and recovery time.
• Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery: Including video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted thoracic surgery. These techniques use small incisions and specialised instruments, offering faster recovery, less pain, and a lower risk of complications.

Mr Pick is a minimally invasive thoracic surgeon who prioritises these techniques wherever appropriate, ensuring you receive care tailored to both your condition and recovery goals.

Minimally invasive techniques, such as VATS or robotic-assisted surgery, offer several important benefits:

• Smaller incisions with less trauma to the chest
• Reduced postoperative pain and scarring
• Lower risk of infection or complications
• Faster recovery time—many patients are home within a few days
• Earlier return to work, exercise, and daily activities

Mr Pick performs a high volume of minimally invasive lobectomy and mediastinal tumour removal, helping patients access world-class care with better outcomes and shorter hospital stays.

Your journey typically begins with a thorough consultation, imaging (such as CT or PET scans), and lung function testing. Mr Pick will explain the recommended surgery, answer your questions, and work with your oncologist or respiratory physician to plan your care.

Before surgery: You’ll receive detailed instructions, including any fasting or medication adjustments.

During your hospital stay:

• Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia
• Most patients stay in hospital 3-5 days after surgery
• Pain management and breathing exercises are part of recovery
• Our team will monitor your progress closely

After discharge: You’ll have follow-up appointments and may be referred for pulmonary rehabilitation to support long-term lung function and wellbeing.

Lung surgery is generally safe when performed by a qualified specialist, though all surgeries carry some risk. Potential complications include infection, bleeding, air leak, reaction to anaesthesia, or temporary difficulty with breathing.

Mr Pick’s surgical expertise, combined with a multidisciplinary care team, helps reduce these risks. Each patient’s care plan is tailored to minimise complications, and safety is prioritised every step of the way.

Yes—most patients breathe well after surgery, especially if they undergo a lobectomy for early-stage lung cancer or a benign mass. Your lungs are remarkably adaptable, and healthy tissue can often compensate for the removed section.

Some shortness of breath is normal during early recovery, but most people experience significant improvement in breathing, energy, and quality of life over time—particularly with pulmonary rehab and smoking cessation.

Mr Adrian Pick is a highly trained cardiothoracic surgeon with a subspecialty focus in thoracic surgery, including lobectomy, minimally invasive lung cancer surgery, and mediastinal tumour removal.

At our clinic, you can expect:

• Advanced surgical techniques including VATS and robotic-assisted procedures
• A compassionate, patient-first approach that acknowledges the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis
• Multidisciplinary collaboration with oncologists, respiratory physicians, and GPs
• Personalised, holistic care tailored to your diagnosis, goals, and lifestyle

Patients and families trust Mr Pick for hic clinical skill, integrity, and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes.

If you’ve been diagnosed with a lung condition and would like to explore your treatment options, or if you’re a GP or cardiologist seeking a specialist referral, please contact Mr Adrian Pick’s Lung Clinic. Referrals can be made directly by your GP or treating specialist.

To schedule an appointment or to learn more, please call (03) 9509 9577, fill out our referral form, or visit our contact page.