Type of Surgery
Information

Last updated: 11/24/2009
The surgeon may use two common incisional approaches: sternotomy (incision through and down the breastbone) or via the side of the chest (thoracotomy).
An operative procedure known as video assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is minimally...
invasive. During VATS, a lung is collapsed and the thoracoscope and surgical instruments are inserted into the thorax through any of three to four small incisions in the chest wall.
Another approach involves the use of a mediastinoscope or bronchoscope to visualize the internal anatomical structures during thoracic surgery or diagnostic procedures.
Preoperative evaluation for most patients (except emergency cases) must include cardiac tests, blood chemistry analysis, and physical examination. Like most operative procedures, the patient should not eat or drink food 10–12 hours prior to surgery. Patients who undergo thoracic surgery with the video-assisted approach tend to have shorter inpatient hospital stays.
Advertisement
A plastic surgeon describes the anatomy of the nose and how these structures can interfere with breathing, cause sinus problems, or be less than ideal cosmetically. This video, which uses graphical animations as teaching tools, explains how the bones and cartilage of the nose contribute to common nasal defects.
Search
Other Information
Thoracic surgery is the field of medicine involved in the surgical treatment of diseases affecting organs inside the thorax (the chest) excluding the heart. Generally treatment of conditions of the lungs, chest wall, esophagus and diaphragm.
Thoracic surgery is often grouped with cardiac surgery and called cardiothoracic surgery.
"According to a June, 2003 article in the Annals of Thoracic Surgery, the workforce currently appears "right sized," although the workforce survey cited indicates significant retirement during the next 10 to 15 years. The annual salary for thoracic surgeons ranges from $218,550 to $533,000".
Find a Qualified Specialist
Looking for a specialist?
Please enter your zip code.
