video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat conditions in the chest, such as lung diseases or tumors. During the procedure, small incisions are made in the chest wall, and a thin tube with a camera, called a thoracoscope, is inserted. This allows surgeons to view the inside of the chest on a monitor and perform necessary interventions with specialized instruments.
VATS offers several benefits compared to traditional open surgery, including reduced pain, shorter recovery times, and minimal scarring. It is commonly used for procedures like lung biopsies, pleurodesis, and the removal of lung tissue or tumors.