Our Summary

The technique of video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) for treating early stage lung cancer has evolved and become less invasive over time. The latest development in this area is the Uniportal VATS (UniVATS) strategy. This is a method that seems to offer some benefits compared to the older, multiport VATS method and it has been widely accepted and used by surgeons around the world. The UniVATS technique has been successfully used for many different types of procedures related to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This paper reviews these procedures and discusses the current and future developments of the UniVATS method.

FAQs

  1. What is the Uniportal VATS (UniVATS) strategy for lung surgery?
  2. How does the UniVATS method compare to the older, multiport VATS technique in treating lung cancer?
  3. What are the current and future developments of the UniVATS method?

Doctor’s Tip

One tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung surgery is to follow their post-operative care instructions closely to ensure a successful recovery. This may include taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, practicing deep breathing exercises, and avoiding smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. It is important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help support healing and improve overall lung health.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended lung surgery include those with:

  1. Early stage lung cancer: Patients with early stage lung cancer may be recommended lung surgery to remove the tumor and prevent its spread to other parts of the body.

  2. Lung nodules: Patients with lung nodules that are suspicious for cancer may undergo lung surgery to remove the nodules and determine whether they are cancerous or benign.

  3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Patients with severe COPD may benefit from lung surgery to improve their lung function and quality of life.

  4. Lung infections: Patients with recurrent lung infections or abscesses may require lung surgery to remove the infected tissue and prevent further complications.

  5. Lung trauma: Patients who have sustained a traumatic injury to the lung may need lung surgery to repair the damage and restore normal lung function.

  6. Lung cysts or bullae: Patients with large lung cysts or bullae that are causing symptoms or putting pressure on surrounding organs may undergo lung surgery to remove them.

  7. Lung metastases: Patients with lung metastases from other types of cancer may be recommended lung surgery to remove the metastatic tumors and improve their overall prognosis.

Overall, the decision to recommend lung surgery for a patient will depend on their specific condition, overall health, and treatment goals. It is important for patients to discuss the risks and benefits of lung surgery with their healthcare provider before making a decision.

Timeline

Before lung surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes various tests and scans to confirm the diagnosis and stage of lung cancer.
  2. Patient meets with their surgeon to discuss the surgical options and risks.
  3. Patient may need to stop taking certain medications and follow specific pre-operative instructions.
  4. Surgery date is scheduled and patient prepares for the procedure.

After lung surgery:

  1. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is closely monitored by medical staff.
  2. Patient may experience pain and discomfort in the chest and may be given pain medication.
  3. Patient is encouraged to start moving around and deep breathing exercises to prevent complications.
  4. Patient may have a chest tube placed to drain excess fluid and air from the chest cavity.
  5. Patient is discharged from the hospital once they are stable and able to care for themselves at home.
  6. Patient attends follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their recovery and discuss any further treatment options.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with lung surgery?
  2. How long will the recovery process be and what can I expect during this time?
  3. What is the success rate of uniportal VATS compared to other surgical techniques for lung cancer?
  4. How experienced are you in performing uniportal VATS procedures?
  5. What is the expected outcome in terms of tumor removal and overall lung function post-surgery?
  6. Will I need any additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before opting for surgery?
  8. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  9. What follow-up care and monitoring will be required after the surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions I should be aware of after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Bulgarelli Maqueda L, García-Pérez A, Minasyan A, Gonzalez-Rivas D. Journal: Gen Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2020 Jul;68(7):707-715. doi: 10.1007/s11748-019-01221-4. Epub 2019 Oct 15. PMID: 31617147