Thoracoscopic-assisted pneumonectomy

Abstract

Pneumonectomy is commonly performed via thoracotomy, although some centers are performing thoracoscopic pneumonectomy. Longer follow-up is needed to determine whether thoracoscopic pneumonectomy is equivalent or superior to pneumonectomy via thoracotomy. Robotic pneumonectomy has been reported in a handful of patients. However, it may be performed more frequently as more surgeons become proficient with thoracic robotic surgery and appropriate robotic instrumentation is developed.