In the past, all lung cancer surgeries were performed using open methods. Today, most lung cancer surgeries worldwide are conducted using closed techniques. This article provides information about Single Port Thoracoscopy (VATS), the most advanced form of these minimally invasive surgeries known as thoracoscopy or VATS.
What is Single Port Thoracoscopy?
Single Port Thoracoscopy is a minimally invasive (endoscopic) surgical technique used to diagnose and treat many diseases within the chest cavity, primarily the lungs. It involves:
- A single small incision between 1 and 5 cm in length.
- Not opening the space between the ribs, as done in open surgeries.
- Using only one incision instead of the 3 or 4 incisions used in standard thoracoscopy or robotic methods.
- Providing post-operative comfort with minimal pain and better respiratory function due to the small and singular incision.
- Enabling patients to return to their normal lives quickly.
It is currently the most advanced technique used in lung cancer surgeries.
Why is Single Port Thoracoscopy Preferred?
It is preferred because:
- It is a highly safe method.
- It has a high success rate.
- It boasts high patient satisfaction rates.
- It has low complication rates.
- Post-operative pain is minimal.
- Hospital stays are short.
- It is the first-choice surgery method in all developed countries.
How is it Performed?
(All illustrations are copyrighted by Prof. Dr. Semih Halezeroğlu and may not be used without permission.)
- The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, with an incision of 1-5 cm made on the side of the chest.
- A 10mm diameter surgical camera is inserted into the chest cavity, and images are displayed on a screen.
- The surgeon performs the surgery by observing the images on the screen.
Questions and Answers
Question: How many days do I need to stay in the hospital?
Answer: Depending on the type of surgery performed, hospital stays range from 1 to 4 days. For lung cancer patients, the average stay is 3 or 4 nights, while for benign tumors, it is 1 or 2 nights.
Question: Will I need to stay in intensive care after the surgery?
Answer: For lung cancer surgeries, we require one night of intensive care. This is not necessary for other types of surgeries.
Question: How soon can I return to normal life after being discharged?
Answer: This varies from person to person. On average, patients return to normal life within 1 to 5 days after discharge.
Question: Will I experience a lot of pain after the surgery?
Answer: Since there is only one small incision, severe pain is not expected. Any discomfort is managed with pain relievers.
Question: How many times has your team performed this surgery?
Answer: Between 2010 and 2022, our team performed 1,250 single-port VATS surgeries.
Question: Is there a chance this surgery could be converted to an open operation?
Answer: Yes, in about 1% of all cases, treatment using this method was not feasible, and an open operation was performed. For lung cancer patients, this rate is 4%.
