Overview

Thoracic surgery involves operative treatment of diseases affecting the lungs, chest wall, esophagus, mediastinum, and diaphragm. It can be performed using open methods or minimally invasive techniques such as VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery) and robotic-assisted surgery.

Conditions Treated

• Lung cancer and tumors

• Pleural effusion and empyema

• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)

• Chest wall deformities

• Esophageal cancer or reflux disease

• Diaphragmatic hernias

Symptoms Requiring Evaluation

• Chronic cough

• Chest pain

• Coughing up blood

• Difficulty swallowing

• Recurrent lung infections

• Unexplained weight loss

Diagnostic Tools

• Chest X-ray and CT scan

• PET-CT for cancer staging

• Bronchoscopy

• Biopsy and cytology

• Pulmonary function tests

Surgical Approaches

• Lobectomy or segmentectomy for lung cancer

• Decortication for pleural disease

• Esophagectomy or fundoplication

• Thoracotomy or VATS (minimally invasive)

• Chest wall reconstruction

Postoperative Recovery

• Pain control and physiotherapy

• Lung exercises (incentive spirometry)

• Follow-up imaging and oncology referral if cancer

Conclusion

Thoracic surgery is essential for both benign and malignant conditions. Early referral and minimally invasive techniques can reduce complications and enhance outcomes.