The Surgical Approches: Conventional (Thoracotomy)

Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS)

Robotic Assisted Thoracic Surgery (RATS)

We perform a wide range of procedure via conventional, video assisted (VATS) and robotic assisted (RATS) approaches. No approach is the “best” but we will tailor the best strategy in order to achieve the best surgical and oncological outcomes.

Conventional (open) approach: this will require an incision on the side of the chest and it is an extremely safe approach in the management of large lesions requiring extensive surgery and in the presence of bulky disease and following oncological management. Open approach is also indicated whenever there is concern about anatomical variation and full oncological clearance.

Video Assisted (VATS) approach (also known as “keyhole”): VATS is indicated and appropriate in the management of early stage lung cancer allowing a wide range of procedure ranging from lobectomy to sublobar resections and lung biopsy. It is also the surgical approach of choice for the management of any pleural disease (pneumothorax, empyema, pleural effusion). VATS may not be appropriate if the surgery is particularly challenging and complex given anatomical variation of extension of the disease.

It is meant to provide the patient a shorter hospital stay with less scarring and in the majority of cases a quick recovery.

Robotic assisted (RATS) approach: we are fully trained and qualified to perform chest surgery with the Intuitive Da Vinci Robotic system. The Da Vinci System provides the surgeon with enhanced vision with improved motion and dexterity in performing surgery such as: lung resections, diaphragmatic plication and resection of anterior mediastinal masses (thymomas). RATS approach like all the other minimally invasive approaches is meant to provide the patient a shorted hospital stay with improved scarring and postoperative pain control. During our detailed consultation we can determine whether Robotic approach will be beneficial and fit your needs.