Name of the Procedure:

Thoracoscopy, Surgical with Diagnostic Wedge Resection Followed by Anatomic Lung Resection

Summary

Thoracoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to view the inside of the chest cavity and lungs. This procedure includes a diagnostic wedge resection to remove a small piece of lung tissue for examination, followed by a more extensive anatomic lung resection to remove a larger, more precise area of lung tissue.

Purpose

The procedure is commonly used to diagnose and treat lung conditions such as tumors, infections, or other abnormalities. The goals include confirming a diagnosis through biopsy and removing diseased lung tissue to improve lung function or prevent the spread of disease.

Indications

• Symptoms such as persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, or respiratory difficulties.
• Abnormal results from imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans showing lung nodules or masses.
• Suspected lung cancer or other lung diseases requiring tissue diagnosis.

Preparation

• Patients are usually required to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments, particularly those affecting blood clotting, may be necessary.
• Preoperative assessments typically include imaging studies and pulmonary function tests.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. Small incisions are made in the chest wall.
3. A thoracoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted to view the chest cavity.
4. Surgical instruments are used to perform a diagnostic wedge resection, removing a small piece of lung tissue.
5. If abnormalities are found, an anatomic lung resection is performed to remove a larger, anatomically defined portion of the lung.
6. Incisions are closed, and dressings are applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on its complexity.

Setting

This operation is performed in a hospital, usually in a specialized surgical suite.

Personnel

• Thoracic Surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical Nurses
• Surgical Technologists

Risks and Complications

• Common risks include infection, bleeding, and air leaks.
• Rare risks encompass reactions to anesthesia, prolonged air leaks, or damage to surrounding structures.
• Management involves close postoperative monitoring and interventions as needed.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of lung conditions through biopsy.
• Removal of diseased lung tissue can lead to improved breathing and symptom relief.
• Potential cure or control of lung cancer if detected early.

Recovery

• Hospital stay of a few days to a week.
• Pain management with medications, including oral or intravenous analgesics.
• Instructions for wound care, activity restrictions, and breathing exercises.
• Follow-up visits for monitoring recovery and potential complications.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical biopsy options like needle biopsy or bronchoscopy.
• Less invasive treatments might be available, depending on the condition.
• Pros: Less recovery time, fewer risks. Cons: May be less definitive or effective.

Patient Experience

• The patient will be asleep during the procedure.
• Postoperative discomfort is common, managed with pain medications.
• Breathing exercises and physical activity are encouraged to aid recovery and prevent complications.
• The patient may experience temporary limitations in activity and mobility.