How does video-assisted thoracic surgery work?

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is a procedure in which a small tube called a thoracoscope is inserted through a small incision between the ribs. At the end of the tube is a small camera. This lets the surgeon see the entire chest cavity without having to open up the chest or spread the ribs.

What happens after VATS lung surgery?

In general, you may be able to return to work (if you have a sedentary job), resume driving and participate in most non-strenuous activities within 4 to 6 weeks after minimally invasive thoracic surgery. You can resume heavy lifting and other more strenuous activities within 6 to 12 weeks after surgery.

What is video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery VATS )? How does VATS differ from an open thoracotomy?

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is minimally invasive thoracic surgery that does not use a formal thoracotomy incision. VATS provides adequate visualization despite limited access to the thorax, allowing the procedure to be performed in patients who are debilitated or have marginal pulmonary reserve.

What type of surgeon performs VATS?

VATS (video-assisted thoracic surgery) is a type of minimally invasive thoracic surgery of the chest, performed with a thoracoscope (small videoscope) using small incisions and special instruments to minimize trauma.

How long is recovery after VATS surgery?

You will have stitches or staples in the incisions. Your doctor will take these out 1 to 2 weeks after your surgery. The amount of time you will need to recover depends on the surgery you had. But you probably will need to take it easy at home for at least 1 to 2 weeks.

Is VATS high risk surgery?

The study by Rover et al. showed an increased risk of infections after VATS procedures in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and FEV1 < 70% [10]. In another study from 2011, Nan et al. reported a similar percentage of complications (6%).

Is VATS considered major surgery?

VATS lung surgery has revolutionized the treatment of many different lung diseases. VATS is major surgery that has risks and potential complications. You may have less invasive treatment options.

What is a major advantage of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery VATS )?

When compared with a traditional open operation (thoracotomy), video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery typically results in less pain, fewer complications and shortened recovery time. If the purpose of VATS is to biopsy tissue, you may need additional surgery, depending on the results of the biopsy.

Is a VATS procedure painful?

Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is generally considered to be a less invasive and painful approach than open thoracotomy (1-4).

What can I expect from VATS surgery?

During a VATS procedure, a tiny camera (thoracoscope) and surgical instruments are inserted into your chest through one or more small incisions in your chest wall. The thoracoscope transmits images of the inside of your chest onto a video monitor, guiding the surgeon in performing the procedure.

What is thoracoscopic wedge resection?

Thoracoscopic wedge resection (TWR) is a minimally invasive (non–rib spreading), nonanatomic limited resection of a lung portion.

What is surgical operations?

surgical operation – a medical procedure involving an incision with instruments; performed to repair damage or arrest disease in a living body; “they will schedule the operation as soon as an operating room is available”; “he died while undergoing surgery”. surgical procedure, surgical process, surgery, operation.

What is a surgical procedure?

surgical procedure – a medical procedure involving an incision with instruments; performed to repair damage or arrest disease in a living body; “they will schedule the operation as soon as an operating room is available”; “he died while undergoing surgery”. surgical operation, surgical process, surgery, operation.