Shanghai Solution" Leads to Successful Lung Cancer Treatment for UK Patient

A patient from the United Kingdom, who underwent treatment last month for multiple lung cancer nodules at Shanghai East Hospital, has shown a positive recovery, according to doctors. The patient, who received a specialized treatment known as the "Shanghai solution," was assessed during his first follow-up check.

The patient, Andrew Car, reported feeling well and has resumed his normal daily activities and diet. He expressed optimism about his prognosis. He was able to return to work just five days after the ablation treatment. Car, a car body designer, has lived in Shanghai for eleven years and felt confident in the decision to receive treatment there.

According to Li Qiang, director of the respiratory and critical care medicine department at the hospital, the patient had more than ten nodules in both lungs. The "Shanghai solution," a procedure called pleuroscopy-assisted early lung cancer ablation (PAELCA), offered a significant opportunity for his treatment. On March 21st, Li's team successfully ablated six nodules in the patient's left lung within a four-hour timeframe.

Subsequent CT scans revealed that all six lesions had been completely ablated, with some nodules now transformed into solid necrotic tissue. A similar ablation treatment on the patient's other lung is planned for the coming months. The patient's recovery highlights the benefits of this minimally invasive ablation treatment, which avoids the potential negative impacts on lung function and quality of life associated with traditional surgeries or radiation therapy.

The nodules in Car's lungs were discovered during a routine check-up approximately six months prior. Considering his family history of lung cancer, immediate surgery was recommended. However, Car chose to remain in Shanghai for treatment, trusting in the medical expertise available there.

Li's team customized the treatment for Car's specific case, modifying the traditional ablation technique. Under general anesthesia, a small incision was made, and a dual-lumen endotracheal tube was inserted to immobilize the lung, allowing for precise targeting of the nodules. Closed thoracic drainage was also performed to enhance the safety of the procedure.

Car praised the medical experience in Shanghai, noting the confidence instilled by Dr. Li and the thorough explanation of the procedure. He also highlighted the doctor's proficiency in English.

PAELCA has been utilized at Shanghai East Hospital since 2000 and was promoted nationally in 2004. The treatment has also been demonstrated to doctors from Southeast Asia, with clinical applications in some local hospitals. The technique was presented at a global industry conference in Indonesia, and a livestreaming platform was established in Singapore to allow doctors in Southeast Asia to observe the ablation treatment online. Dr. Li expressed confidence in the technique and aims to expand its application to more countries in the future.