Thoracic Surgery

India has a growing healthcare sector and is home to many highly skilled and experienced thoracic surgeons who use the latest techniques and technology to perform thoracic surgery. Many hospitals in India have state-of-the-art facilities and advanced medical equipment to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients. The cost of thoracic surgery in India is significantly lower compared to other countries, making it an affordable option for patients from around the world. India is also known for its excellent post-operative care and rehabilitation programs.

Types of Thoracic Surgery 

Thoracic surgery involves procedures related to the chest, specifically the organs and structures within the thoracic cavity. Several types of thoracic surgery address various conditions:

• Lung Resection: Involves removing a portion or the entire lung to treat lung cancer, infections, or benign tumors.
• Thoracotomy: A surgical incision into the chest to access organs like the lungs, heart, or esophagus for various procedures.
• Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): Minimally invasive approach using a small camera and instruments to perform procedures such as lung biopsy, pleural effusion drainage, or lobectomy.
• Esophageal Surgery: Addresses conditions affecting the esophagus, including cancer, reflux disease, or strictures, often involving resection or reconstruction.
• Mediastinal Surgery: Involves procedures within the mediastinum, addressing tumors, cysts, or abnormalities around the heart and major vessels.
• Chest Wall Surgery: Addresses tumors, deformities, or trauma affecting the chest wall, often requiring reconstructive procedures.
• Lung Transplantation: Involves replacing a diseased lung with a healthy donor lung, typically performed in cases of end-stage lung disease.
• Pleurodesis: A procedure to treat recurrent pleural effusions by creating adhesions between the pleura, preventing fluid accumulation.

Thoracic surgery can be performed using traditional open surgery or minimally invasive techniques, such as video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) or robotic-assisted thoracic surgery. The choice of surgical approach depends on several factors, including the patient's condition, the type of procedure, and the surgeon's expertise. Patients need to have a complete set of blood tests and other tests such as include imaging or tests that measure their heart rhythm and function. 

During the surgery, the patient receives anesthesia in an IV. Also, depending on the type of thoracic surgery, a machine may handle the heart’s and lungs’ functions for the patient during the surgery. The surgeon may cut through the breastbone or between your ribs (thoracotomy) to reach the area. Then, repair, remove, and/or replace the organ or body part that requires surgery. Finally, the surgeon checks all the incisions and closes them.