Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS)

What is VATS surgery?

Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive procedure for removing damaged lung and lymph node tissue. This method is generally used to diagnose and treat various thoracic illnesses, with lung cancer being the most common application.

 The treatment uses a narrow tube fitted with a small video camera, known as a thoracoscope, to allow the surgeon to see into the chest cavity. The pictures acquired by the thoracoscope help to guide the surgical operations. The phrase “video-assisted thoracoscopy” can also be used interchangeably. Compared to standard open surgery, which needs a huge incision, VATS uses smaller incisions, resulting in faster recovery periods and less postoperative pain for patients. 

This operation revolutionized the treatment of hard-to-reach Lung Cancer regions, particularly for older patients.

Why it is done?

Surgeons employ the VATS method for a number of surgeries, including:

  • Tissue removal

Surgeons employ the VATS method for a number of surgeries, including:

  • Lung surgeries

include cancer treatment and volume reduction.

  • Esophageal cancer
  • Thymoma and thymic carcinoma

Types of VATS Procedures

Rather than a single, huge incision, as in typical open surgery, a VATS treatment makes several smaller incisions to introduce the doctor’s equipment. VATS is considered less invasive and incorporates a variety of treatments.

  • VATS lobectomy

Lobectomy is the surgical removal of one or more lobes (sections) of the lungs. Lobectomies are a popular therapeutic option for non-small cell lung cancer.

  • VATS wedge resection

A VATS wedge resection is typically performed to determine the source of lung nodules or to treat malignancies that have progressed to other regions of the body. During this treatment, surgeons remove a tiny, triangular-shaped section of the lung (a wedge).

  • VATS biopsy

A biopsy is a technique in which a tiny sample of tissue is taken from your body and analyzed for cancer cells. If cancer is suspected in your chest or lungs, a VATS biopsy may be performed.

What are the advantages of VATS?

VATS is a minimally invasive treatment that takes place through little incisions. 

 

Open-chest surgery (thoracotomy) takes longer to complete. A wide incision is required to spread the ribs and get access to the chest. As a result, recovery times are generally longer and more painful.

VATS has several benefits, including

  • Reduced risk of blood loss and the need for transfusions.
  • Shorter hospital stays.
  • Reduced postoperative discomfort and scarring
  • Faster recovery of respiratory function.
  • Reduced risk of infection and consequences.
  • Faster return to everyday activities.
  • Improved cosmetics.