The procedure pneumonectomy is a highly, highly difficult and risky surgery, and thus, doctors generally have a number  of qualifications and traits that they test in patients to determine if they should have this operation performed.  Some of these include adequate kidney and liver function, a Karnofsky Performance Status score higher than 70, normal cardiac (heart) function, normal pulmonary functions, patient age, and that the cancer is only in the ipsilateral hemi thorax, and not in the diaphragm, heart, or chest wall.

This operation involves removing a diseased lung, part of the pericardium, part of the diaphragm, and part of the membrane lining the chest (parietal pleura).  Having a surgery of this nature should only be done while understanding the nature of the operation, and the pros and cons.  Make sure to have plenty of discussion with your doctor before getting this operation done.