What is VATS surgery?
VATS (Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery) surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to perform surgery on intra-thoracic organs such as the lungs and chest cavity. VATS surgery offers a less invasive approach than traditional open surgery and is performed through smaller incisions.
During VATS surgery, a thin tube with a camera at the tip, called a thoracoscope, is used, togather with long but thin surgical instruments made for this surgery. These instruments are inserted into the chest cavity through one (single incision VATS) or several small incisions. A camera allows the surgeon to see the lungs and other organs and tissues inside the chest cavity on a screen. Other special hand tools are used to help the surgeon perform the operation.
VATS surgery can be performed for 2 purposes.
Diagnostic VATS: It is performed to take a piece (biopsy) of pathological formations in the organs in the chest cavity (lung, pleura, organs in the mediastinum) or to take samples of accumulated fluids and to drain these fluids.
Therapeutic VATS: VATS surgery can be used for the surgical treatment of lung, pleura and mediastinal organs in the chest cavity, especially lung cancer.
VATS can be an effective surgical option for almost all surgeries in the field of thoracic surgery. However, each patient is different, and the type of surgery and approach should be evaluated by the surgeon depending on the patient’s specific condition.
How is VATS procedure performed?
The VATS (Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery) procedure involves the following basic steps:
Preparation: The patient is placed under general anesthesia and a sterile surgical environment is provided.
Small Incisions: The surgeon makes a one small (or several) 1–3-centimeter incisions in the chest area. Through this incision, the camera and surgical instruments are inserted into the chest cavity and the surgery inside the chest cavity is performed by looking through the video screen.
Camera View: A thoracoscope (camera) is used to access the chest. The surgeon monitors the internal chest organs through this camera.
Surgery: The surgeon performs the procedure with a thoracoscope and fine surgical instruments. Lung surgery, biopsy or other surgical procedures may be performed.
Closure: The incisions are closed after placing a chest drainage tube placed through same incision.
Recovery: The patient is kept under observation after surgery and the healing process begins.
VATS is less invasive than traditional open surgery and usually offers a faster recovery time.
What are the advantages of VATS?
VATS (Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery) has many advantages:
- Less Pain: The VATS procedure requires smaller incisions, resulting in less postoperative pain than traditional open surgery.
- Less Bleeding: There is less blood loss during VATS, which reduces the need for transfusions.
- Short Hospital Stay: The hospital stay is usually shorter with VATS. The patient can be discharged faster.
- Smaller Surgical Scar: The incisions required for VATS are smaller, leaving smaller and less noticeable scars.
- Fast Recovery: The postoperative period with VATS offers a faster recovery time than traditional open surgery. Patients can usually return to normal daily activities more quickly.
- Fewer Complications: The VATS procedure can reduce the risk of infection and other surgery-related complications.
- Minimizing Respiratory Problems: The need for a ventilator may be less after VATS, which can help the patient have a more comfortable breathing experience.
VATS is the preferred method for many thoracic surgery procedures and can have a more positive impact on patients’ recovery. However, every patient is different, so it is important to discuss with your doctor to determine which surgical method is most appropriate.
How long does VATS surgery last?
The duration of VATS (Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery) surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery and its technical requirements. The type of surgery, the detail of the procedures involved, and the patient’s specific medical condition are the main factors that determine how long the surgery will take. In general, VATS surgery can be completed in a shorter period than traditional open surgery. This time frame is clearly indicated by your surgeon prior to surgery.
What should be considered after VATS surgery?
Here are the things you should pay attention to after VATS surgery;
Following your doctor’s instructions: Take the medications recommended by your doctor regularly, do not forget to go to your appointments and do not hesitate to ask your doctor any questions you may have.
Keep Rest and Activity Balanced: Rest after surgery is important, but slowly return to normal activities. Move in moderation.
Taking Care of Wound Care: Keep your incisions clean and dry. Take regular wound care as recommended by your doctor.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and drinking alcohol can negatively affect your healing process. Stay away from these substances for the period determined by your doctor.
Not Neglecting Regular Doctor Checks: Do your checks on the dates determined by your doctor. It is important to monitor your postoperative progress and prevent possible complications.
These measures are important to protect your health after surgery and to have a fast recovery process.
What are the prices for VATS surgery?
VATS (Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery) surgery prices vary depending on the choice of hospital, type of surgery and the specific condition of the patient. To find out the exact price, it is necessary to contact the health institution or surgeon who will perform the surgery.