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Thoracic Cancer Service

Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute delivers compassionate, expert care for thoracic cancers such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and thymoma. We use advanced diagnostics and offer leading treatments, along with access to promising new therapies through clinical trials.

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Call the Cancer Institute at

8557764224
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Experts in care for thoracic cancers

Thoracic cancers — such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and thymoma — affect organs in the chest and often require multidisciplinary care. At the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute, specialists in oncology, surgery, radiation, pulmonology, and radiology collaborate to provide coordinated, personalized treatment.

We offer advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive surgery, precision radiation, and clinical trial access, with care tailored to your cancer type, stage, and health.

Our team also commonly manages conditions that occur alongside thoracic cancers, such as emphysema and interstitial lung disease.

Patients may come to us after a new diagnosis, by referral, or for a second opinion.

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Part of the Cancer Institute
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Our approach to thoracic cancer care

Our team approach ensures you get a comprehensive treatment plan. We consider all possibilities, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.
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Personalized and targeted therapies
Many thoracic cancers have specific genetic or molecular elements that can guide treatment decisions. Our team conducts advanced testing to identify these changes and decide whether targeted therapies or immunotherapies would be effective. These treatments are designed to target cancer cells while limiting harm to healthy tissue.
Precision radiation oncology

Through a process called IMRT+, our radiation oncologists specialize in using advanced techniques designed to precisely target tumors while protecting healthy tissue and reducing side effects.

By carefully shaping and targeting radiation, we can:

  • Reduce irritation to the lungs and esophagus
  • Limit radiation exposure to the heart
  • Tailor treatment to each patient’s cancer
Advanced imaging for safer radiation delivery
Our teams pioneered advanced imaging techniques that track how tumors move as you breathe. By accounting for this natural motion, we can plan and deliver radiation more precisely for lung and esophageal cancers, helping protect healthy tissue while targeting the tumor more accurately.
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Our approach

Thoracic cancer conditions treated

Thoracic cancer treatment varies, depending on stage and other factors. Your care may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of therapies tailored to your needs. We care for patients with conditions including:
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Conditions and treatments

Our cancer specialists

At every step, your care is guided by a multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists. This may include medical, surgical, and radiation oncology physicians, advanced practice providers, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, nurse navigators, and more. You may also work with dietitians, genetic counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals.
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Find a thoracic cancer specialist
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Specialists
We offer the most advanced care for thoracic cancers.

  • Cancer Institute

    Learn about how the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute delivers expert cancer care for common and complex cancers, advancing new treatments through research and clinical trials.

  • Lung Cancer Program

    Learn more about the Mass General Brigham Lung Cancer Program offers advanced surgery and other treatments for small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer.

  • Thoracic Surgery Program

    Access expert thoracic surgery at Mass General Brigham. Our team of surgeons provides advanced treatments and personalized support.

  • Radiation Oncology

    Our radiation oncologists offer the latest, most advanced techniques in a caring, supportive environment. Read more about our services.

  • Cancer Early Detection and Diagnostics Program

    Learn how Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute brings specialists together to advance research and care in early cancer detection, including multi-cancer detection.

  • The Lung Center

    Experience world-class care at The Lung Center at Mass General Brigham. Our experts treat asthma, COPD, lung cancer, and many other lung conditions.

  • Cancer Genetics Program

    Working with experienced genetic counselors helps you understand your cancer risk. Trust our team to get you the information and resources you need.

  • Women's Lung Health Program

    The Mass General Brigham Women’s Lung Health Program cares for women’s unique needs. Get research-backed lung care for COPD, asthma, lung cancer, and more.

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Services and programs

Cancer clinical trials and research

Our research is shaping the future of cancer care. We offer access to clinical trials and emerging therapies, including treatments that may not yet be widely available. Eligibility depends on a person’s diagnosis, treatment history, and more. Explore our research and clinical trials or talk with your care team to learn about available options.
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Explore our cancer research

Learn how cancer research informs patient care

https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/cancer-institute-research
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Search clinical trials
https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/cancer-institute-research/cancer-clinical-trials
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Patient resources and support

We offer a range of resources to support patients and caregivers before, during, and after cancer treatment. These services address physical, emotional, and practical needs and are available alongside your medical care.
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Explore articles featuring expert insights on cancer care, patient experiences, and tips for managing a cancer diagnosis.

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Contact the Cancer Institute

Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
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855-776-4224

Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at 855-776-4224

8557764224
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International Patient Services

Contact International Patient Services

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Contact