VATS surgical techniques

Abstract

Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) has established itself as an integral modality for the diagnosis of a variety of chest diseases. This chapter gives an overview of the most common applications of VATS in the diagnosis of chest diseases in the hands of the interventionalpneumologist. VATS has become increasingly appreciated for the diagnosis and treatment of pleural effusions, pleural empyema, interstitial lung disease, pneumothorax, hemothorax, chylothorax, recurrent pericardial effusion, mediastinal cysts, and mediastinal masses. The interventionalpneumologist should be familiar with the indications, opportunities, and limitations of the procedures. Realization of the procedures should be done in close cooperation with a general thoracic surgeon.