Minimally invasive thoracic surgery
allows the performance of surgical procedures in the chest
cavity utilizing small incisions and specially-adapted,
video-endoscopic instruments. This affords a quicker and
less painful convalescence for the patient.
Many procedures which were previously performed with larger
incisions can now be done thoracoscopically, with comparable
results. Thoracoscopy is useful for the diagnosis and
treatment of a variety of intra-thoracic processes.
Lung Cancer
Thoracoscopy has a large role in managing patients with lung
cancer. We use this technique frequently to assist in the
diagnosis, staging, and treatment of lung cancer. Solitary
nodules are frequently resected this way.
Any patient for which a minimally invasive procedure can
help either in the diagnosis or treatment of lung cancer is
offered this approach. This has significantly helped us
reduce overall length of stay and shorten recovery time.
Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is increasing in frequency and today
affects mainly middle aged white males. The primary therapy
for esophageal cancer is surgery to remove all or part of
the affected portion of the esophagus. Chemotherapy and
radiation are frequently used as adjuncts.
Esophageal Disorders
The esophagus is a tube through which food is delivered from
the mouth to the stomach. Although it does not have any role
in the absorption of food, it is critically important in
delivering food from the mouth to the stomach in a precise
manner.
Benign diseases of the esophagus are primarily related to
swallowing irregularities and the backflow of acid or other
toxic substances into the lower esophagus. These disorders
are very common today and account for significant morbidity
among the general population.
Please contact our office if you or a family member is
suffering from one of these conditions.
