Thoracotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the chest wall to access the organs within the thoracic cavity, such as the lungs and heart. This operation is often performed to diagnose or treat conditions like lung cancer, trauma, or infections. The procedure can be done through various approaches, including a standard lateral incision or minimally invasive techniques. After the surgery, patients may require monitoring and rehabilitation to recover fully. Complications can include infection, bleeding, or respiratory issues, but many patients benefit significantly from the intervention.