Thoracoscopy, also known as video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various conditions affecting the chest and lungs, including lung cancer. It involves the insertion of a small camera, called a thoracoscope, and specialized instruments through small incisions in the chest wall. The thoracoscope provides a magnified view of the chest cavity, allowing the surgeon to perform precise maneuvers and interventions. Thoracoscopy offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and improved cosmetic outcomes.

Diagnostic Thoracoscopy: Diagnostic thoracoscopy is used to visually inspect the chest cavity and obtain tissue samples for accurate diagnosis. It aids in the evaluation of lung nodules, suspicious masses, pleural conditions and the staging of lung / pleural cancer. Tissue samples can be obtained through biopsy or fine needle aspiration (FNA) during the procedure.

Thoracoscopic Procedures:

• Thoracoscopic Lobectomy: A thoracoscopic lobectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at removing a portion of a lung affected by conditions such as lung cancer or other lung diseases. This procedure involves smaller incisions and reduced recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.
• Thoracoscopic Pneumonectomy: Thoracoscopic pneumonectomy is a sophisticated technique that allows for the removal of an entire lung through minimally invasive methods. This procedure is often performed to treat severe lung diseases or certain types of lung cancer.
• Thoracoscopic Wedge Resection: Thoracoscopic wedge resection is a procedure used to remove a small, localized area of a lung affected by abnormalities or early-stage lung cancer. It is a less invasive alternative to traditional surgery, resulting in faster recovery and reduced postoperative discomfort.
• Pleurodesis: Pleurodesis is a thoracoscopic procedure used to treat recurrent pleural effusions (accumulation of fluid in the space between the lung and the chest wall). During this procedure, substances are introduced to create adhesions between the lung and chest wall, preventing the accumulation of fluid.
• Decortication: Thoracoscopic decortication is performed to remove the fibrous layer of tissue (pleura) that can become thickened and restrict lung expansion due to conditions such as pleural effusion or empyema.
• Bullectomy: A bullectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of abnormally enlarged air spaces (bullae) within the lung. This procedure is often performed to improve lung function and alleviate symptoms in patients with conditions like bullous emphysema.
• Thoracoscopic Esophagectomy: Thoracoscopic esophagectomy is a minimally invasive approach to removing a portion of the esophagus, typically used to treat esophageal cancer. This procedure offers reduced postoperative pain and a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
• Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy: Thoracoscopic sympathectomy is performed to treat conditions like hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) or Raynaud's disease by interrupting the signals of the sympathetic nervous system. This minimally invasive procedure can provide relief from symptoms and improve quality of life.
• Thoracoscopic Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair: Thoracoscopic diaphragmatic hernia repair is a technique used to correct a diaphragmatic hernia, a condition where organs from the abdomen protrude into the chest cavity. This procedure is performed through small incisions, resulting in a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

At Heal Onco Care, we are dedicated to providing the most advanced and compassionate care for individuals with lung cancer. Our team of experienced thoracic surgeons specializes in thoracoscopy, offering minimally invasive approaches for diagnosis, staging, and treatment. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how thoracoscopy can make a positive difference in your lung cancer journey. Together, we can breathe new life into your future with hope, expertise, and personalized care.