Video-assisted thoracic surgery

Abstract

Minimally invasive techniques have revolutionized the surgical approach to diseases of the lungs and esophagus. Nearly every major thoracic operation has been performed utilizing video-assisted techniques. Although preliminary outcomes data do appear encouraging for some of the more common procedures such as lobectomy, sympathectomy, and thoracic esophagectomy, the majority of such data are derived from individual experiences or institutional series with short- to intermediate-term follow-up. There is a relative paucity of prospective controlled studies that validate long-term efficacy of minimally invasive approaches to diseases of the thoracic cavity. In this chapter, we review the minimally invasive approaches of lobectomy for lung cancer as well as staging and resection for esophageal cancer utilizing an evidence-based analysis. Emphasis is placed on long-term results, complications, and cost-effectiveness. © 2008 Springer New York.