Thoracic Robotic Surgery

Thoracic surgery is a surgical specialty which is focused on procedures involving the chest, more formally known as the thorax. It may also be known as cardiothoracic surgery; cardiothoracic surgeons focus on heart and lung surgery in particular.

Robotic-assisted technology has had a positive impact for patients and physicians on the practice of thoracic surgery, particularly surgical procedures performed on the lungs and esophagus. With the use of the da Vinci^® Robotic Surgical System, these procedures can be performed through small incisions without spreading or cutting the ribs, which could require a large, 8-10 inch incision. This open surgery commonly would require a more lengthy and uncomfortable recovery.

Thoracic surgeries that can be performed using the da Vinci Robotic Surgical Systems include:

• Lung resections including lobectomy (surgical removal of the lobe of the lung)
• Lymph nodes biopsy in the mediastinum (center part of the chest including heart, main blood vessels, lymph nodes and the esophagus)
• Removal of mediastinal tumors

The da Vinci Robotic Surgical System provides surgeons and patients with what may be the most effective, least invasive treatment option for even the most complex thoracic procedures. Among the potential benefits of da Vinci robotic thoracic surgery are:

• Reduced risk of infection
• Less blood loss and need for blood transfusions
• Shorter hospital stay
• Less pain and scarring
• Faster recovery and return to normal activities

For more information about robotic-assisted surgery for thoracic conditions, please call (877) 850-9602.