VATS

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive surgical technique used for diagnosing and treating diseases within the chest (thoracic) cavity. By utilizing a thoracoscope, which is a small camera inserted through tiny incisions, surgeons can view the chest cavity on a monitor and perform various procedures with precision.

Purpose:

Diagnostic: To examine the chest cavity, lungs, and pleura for abnormalities.
Therapeutic: To treat conditions such as lung cancer, pleural effusions, pneumothorax, and infections.

Procedure:

Preparation: Preoperative assessments, imaging studies, and patient counseling are conducted.

Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.
Incision: Several small incisions (typically 1-3 cm) are made in the chest wall.
Insertion: The thoracoscope and surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions.
Operation: The surgeon views the chest cavity on a monitor and performs the necessary procedure.
Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical staples.

Advantages:

Less Pain: Smaller incisions result in less postoperative pain compared to open thoracic surgery.
Shorter Hospital Stay: Patients typically experience a shorter hospital stay.
Quicker Recovery: Reduced recovery time allows for a faster return to normal activities.
Minimal Scarring: Smaller incisions lead to less visible scarring.
Lower Risk of Complications: Reduced risk of infection and other complications due to smaller incisions.

Applications:

Lung Resection: Removal of lung nodules, lobectomy, or pneumonectomy for lung cancer.
Pleural Procedures: Management of pleural effusions, pleurodesis, and pleural biopsies.
Mediastinal Surgery: Removal of tumors or cysts from the mediastinum.
Sympathectomy: Treatment for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
Biopsy: Obtaining tissue samples for diagnosis.

Recovery:

Hospital Stay: Typically shorter compared to open surgery.
Pain Management: Less postoperative pain and discomfort.
Activity: Patients can usually resume normal activities more quickly.
Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and address any complications.