Definition of Surgery in India

Medical thoracoscopy/pleuroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows access to the pleural space using a combination of viewing and working instruments. It also allows for basic diagnostic (undiagnosed pleural fluid or pleural thickening) and therapeutic procedures (pleurodesis) to be performed safely. This procedure is distinct from video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, an invasive procedure that uses sophisticated access platform and multiple ports for separate viewing and working instruments to access pleural space. It requires one-lung ventilation for adequate creation of a working space in the hemithorax. Complete visualization of the entire hemithorax, multiple angles of attack to pleural, pulmonary (parenchymal), and mediastinal pathology with the ability to introduce multiple instruments into the operative field allows for both basic and advanced procedures to be performed safely.

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery in India

Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery, often referred to as VATS, is performed using a small video camera that is introduced into the patient’s chest via a scope. With the video camera, the surgeon is able to view the anatomy along with other surgical instruments that are introduced into the chest via small incisions or “ports”.

Traditional surgical approaches have utilized a single large incision (cut) that is placed between the patient’s ribs. The ribs are then spread apart, allowing the surgeon to look directly into the patient’s chest. The surgery is then performed via this single large opening. These incisions are known as thoracotomies, and while very safe, are uncomfortable. By utilizing VATS, this large incision is avoided, thereby sparing the patient some of the post-operative pain and assisting them with a potentially quicker recovery.

Equipment in India

Sterile equipment for visualization, exposure, manipulation, and biopsy is required. A high-resolution video imaging system, which includes the pleuro-scope, that allows all members of the team to view and participate in the procedure is beneficial to facilitate maximum assistance to the dedicated operator and safety for the patient. The procedure can be either performed in the operating room or in a dedicated environment for invasive procedures.

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat problems in the chest.

During this surgery, one or more small incisions are made in the chest. A tiny fiber-optic camera (called a thorascope) is inserted through one incision, and surgical instruments are inserted through this or other small incisions. The thorascope transmits images of the inside of the chest on a video monitor, guiding the surgeon in maneuvering the instruments to complete the procedure.

VATS can replace a traditional thoracotomy, which uses one larger incision to gain access to the chest. The minimally invasive procedure typically results in less pain and faster recovery time for the patient, among other advantages for patients.

The Thoracoscopy Procedure in India

A Thoracoscopy uses an endoscope to visually examine the pleura, lungs, and mediastinum and to obtain tissue for testing purposes. An endoscope is an illuminated optic instrument that is inserted through an incision.

• The anesthesiologist gives you general anesthesia, which lets you sleep and keeps you free from pain during surgery. Once you’re asleep, you’re positioned comfortably on your side.
• Several small incisions are made in your side.
• The surgeon inserts a thin, tubelike instrument containing a tiny camera through one of the incisions. This camera allows the surgeon to view your lungs on a video monitor. Surgical instruments are inserted through the other incisions.
• When the procedure is finished, one or more tubes may be temporarily placed in the chest to drain fluid and air. The incisions are then closed with sutures or staples.]