Three types of lung surgery differ by how much lung tissue is removed.
- Wedge resection (also called a segmentectomy): A wedge-shaped section of the affected lung is removed.
- Lobectomy: The affected lobe of the lung is removed.
- Pneumonectomy: The entire affected lung is removed.
Sometimes cancer grows in the bronchus, which is the part of the trachea (windpipe) that branches off into each lung. Surgery to remove part of the bronchus is called a sleeve resection.
Current as of: May 1, 2026
Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.