Thoracic Center
M. D. Anderson's Thoracic Center is dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with all stages of lung and chest cancers.Our surgeons, oncologists and radiation therapists collaborate to treat mesothelioma and cancers of the lung, esophagus, trachea, chest wall, pericardium and pulmonary system, which often require more than one type of treatment.
M. D. Anderson constantly employs new and advanced technologies and treatment options, and we benchmark against national cancer standards to ensure that we achieve the best outcomes possible for our patients. In fact, when compared against data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program, M. D. Anderson’s five-year outcomes outperformed national survival statistics for both early and late stage lung cancer. M. D. Anderson achieved five-year survival rates of more than 30% higher than the SEER average for lung cancers overall and more than 35% higher for patients with early stage lung cancer.
As with any cancer, ensuring the best treatment requires accurate diagnosis and staging. M. D. Anderson offers the latest diagnostic techniques available, such as positron emission tomography (PET), high resolution CT scanning, endobronchial and esophageal ultrasound and advanced bronchoscopic imaging.
Our innovative cancer treatments include advanced and minimally invasive surgery techniques, proton beam radiation therapy, and access to the latest drugs that specifically target cancer cells. The integration of these therapies allows M. D. Anderson to achieve the best possible outcome for patients with thoracic cancers.
Getting the right diagnosis and treatment from the start can make all of the difference in your fight against cancer.
Appointments
Patients can be referred to the Thoracic Center for cancer diagnosis, treatment or screening.
New Patients
Please complete the Patient Self-Referral form. You will be contacted by a Referral Specialist to collect the additional information required for confirming your appointment.
- New Patient Checklist (pdf)
Physicians
Please complete the Physician Referral form. A Referral Specialist will contact your office for additional information and then contact your patient to confirm the appointment.
Disease Information
Related Departments
Related Programs
Online Services
Take advantage of our online services, including myMDAnderson, the personalized site that helps you manage your cancer treatment:
- Appointment schedules
- Secure messaging with your care team
- Patient education, billing, and more
Patient Care Essentials
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Newly Diagnosed
Here are some things to consider before making an appointment.
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Your First Appointment
Get prepared for your first visit to M. D. Anderson.
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Managing Your Treatment
Learn how to cope with treatment side effects and resolve treatment-related issues.
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Getting Support
Find support for patients, family and caregivers.
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Living With Cancer
Cancer survivorship issues before, during and after treatment.

