Lung resection is the preferred treatment for early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Anatomical lung resections are challenging for the surgeon due to the many anatomical variations and require a thorough knowledge of lung anatomy. Lobectomy is considered the 'gold standard' procedure for the treatment of early stage NSCLC. Recent studies have shown that segmentectomy, a more technically demanding procedure, is an equally good way to treat small lung tumours.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programmes have been introduced to standardise patient management, minimise postoperative complications and improve patient safety and satisfaction. An ERAS programme is a multimodal, evidence-based approach that combines various interventions from patient referral to discharge and continued recovery at home.

To optimise the preoperative preparation and planning of lung resections, our research group has developed a prototype virtual reality (VR) platform. A feasibility study has shown that this VR platform is useful for (novice) surgeons to improve decision making in lung cancer surgery, may influence the treatment plan and affect the quality of surgical performance.

In addition to a meticulously planned procedure, it is important to address all aspects of the ERAS pathway. A high rate of compliance with ERAS components is associated with a reduction in postoperative complications and a shorter length of hospital stay after thoracoscopic lung resection. Education of patients and all healthcare professionals involved in the process is key.

Our research focuses on the optimising the whole care process, from patient selection, through surgical planning, to postoperative care and rehabilitation. This in turn will have an impact on patient safety after lung resection.