What is the role of VATS in lung cancer (video-assisted thoracic surgery)?

Lung cancer is the most frequent and severe type of cancer in the contemporary world and can be treated only with the help of appropriate medical procedures. Amongst these, video-assisted thoracic surgery known as VATS is the best that surgeons recommend. It has emerged as a revolutionary approach to handling lung cancer. This safe and relatively pain-free method is preferable to conventional surgery that has the potential for significant postoperative complications.

In this blog, we will discuss VATS in lung cancer, how the process is done, its pros and cons, and how it transforms the field into lung surgery. Dr. Harsh Vardhan Puri is a well-known thoracic surgeon and an official member of the Indian Surgical Association. He has been involved in the application of this approach to enhance good health care for patients.

Understanding Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS)

VATS is used for thoracic surgery operations while keeping as little invasion to the body as possible thanks to the incisions being on the smaller end. A camera with specialized tools is shown to the surgeon from within the thoracic cavity and instead of allowing the rib cage to be opened up larger than necessary, pliable instruments are used to minimally massage the soft areas around the rib cage.

The process includes:

• Insertion of a Thoracoscope- This is a reasonably thin camera-aided intruding device that is placed inside alongside the thoracic cavity and transfers the visuals captured on the monitor for the surgeon.
• Use of specialized instruments- Similar to the surgery, more than 1 cm cuts are made to insert a thoracoscope from which other tools shoot out that will aid during the surgery.

Role of VATS in Lung Cancer

Similar to any other equipment, VATS has different functionalities when it comes to aiding in surgeries, primarily, for lung cancer. It Includes:

Diagnosis:

• Cancerous lung masses or nodules that look suspicious are removed through a coordinated process known as a biopsy.
• Lymph nodes that are present close to the breastbone area are extracted which helps in detecting whether or to what degree the cancer has spread.

Staging:

• A detailed imaging of all parts present in the thoracic cavities is captured and used for observing the lungs and determining if the cancer has spread.
• The surgeon can see the tissues and muscle layers circulating the chest tube’s thorax cavity and can detect if the last stage of cancer has been reached.

Treatment:

• Lobectomy: A lung that is infected with cancer is torn away suffering minimal damage.

• Segmentectomy: An even smaller patch of the lungs has been spotted and is being cut.
• Pneumonectomy: If a more invasive procedure is needed then crippling the entire lung is an approach to take.

Advantages of VATS Over Traditional Thoracotomy

VATS has been confirmed to be a recreation-changer in lung cancer remedy because of its numerous blessings:

Minimal Invasiveness

1. Smaller incisions, lessen bodily trauma, and postoperative aches.
2. No need for rib spreading, leading to faster recuperation.

Faster Recovery

1. Patient recovery is faster compared to open surgical procedures.
2. Quicker go back to daily routine.

Improved Cosmetic Outcomes

1. The small incisions go away with minimum scarring improving patient pride.

Better Surgical Precision

1. The excessive-definition visuals supplied with the aid of the thoracoscope enhance accuracy throughout tumor removal.

Lower Complication Rates

1. Reduced danger of infections, blood loss, and breathing problems.
2. Lesser effect on lung functioning.

Oncologic Outcomes

• Cancer control is comparable to or better than open surgery.
• Effective removal of tumors and lymph nodes for complete healing.

Procedure: Step-by-Step Information

Preoperative preparation

1. Perform advanced imaging studies such as CT and PET scans to diagnose the tumor.
2. Pulmonary function tests assess lung capacity and surgical tolerance.

Anesthesia

1. VATS is performed under general anesthesia with a single lung trachea for a lung probe on the operative side.

Cut with Instruments

1. Small incisions (usually 1-3 cm) are made and the thoracoscope and surgical instruments are inserted.

Lymph node removal

1. Systematic mediastinal lymph node dissection is done. 
2. Lymph nodes can also be removed for staging and better treatment.

Recovery and After Care

• The incision is closed, and chest drainage removes air and fluid from the pleural space.
• Transfer patients to recovery, where they are monitored for any complications.

Applications of VATS in Different Types of Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

• Primary NSCLC is usually treated with VATS lobectomy or segmentectomy.
• The technique allows complete tumor resection with minimal complications.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

1. Although mainly with chemotherapy and radiation, VATS can be used for biopsy or resection in selected cases.

Diffuse Lung Tumor

• VATS facilitates the removal of isolated metastases, improving patients’ quality of life and survival outcomes.

Risks and Limitations of VATS

While highly effective, VATS is not without risks and limitations:

RISKS

• Bleeding during surgery.

• Infection of incision sites.

1. Air from the lungs.
2. Rarely, persistent pain or nerve damage.

Limitations

• May not be suitable for advanced lung cancer or tumors adjacent to vital systems.

• Requires specialized training and skills, such as those provided by surgeons like Dr. Harsh Vardhan Puri.
• Cost may be a consideration, although the short recovery period compensates for some of the cost.

How Dr. Harsh Vardhan Puri is Transforming Thoracic Surgery with VATS

Dr. Harsh Vardhan Puri, a thoracic surgeon of great repute, has pioneered using VATS to treat lung cancer in the best possible manner. The experience, the man has and the passion that he has shown in patient care have made him famous. Great surgical skills and individual approaches are making Dr. Puri guarantee success in every procedure.

Some highlights of his approach include:

• Priority is given to the identification of the disease in its early stages and the use of less invasive approaches.

• Morbidity and mortality of multiple lobectomies or lymph node dissections, familiarity with different types of thoracic operations.
• Proper care after surgery to improve the outcomes of the procedures and the life of the patient.

Bottom Line

VATS has revolutionized lung cancer treatment by offering a minimally invasive, highly effective alternative to traditional surgeries. Its benefits, including faster recovery, reduced complications, and excellent oncological outcomes, make it a preferred choice for patients and surgeons. With experts like Dr. Harsh Vardhan Puri, who brings unparalleled expertise to this field, patients can be assured of receiving world-class care tailored to their needs.

If you or your loved one is facing lung cancer, consult Dr. Harsh Vardhan Puri to explore how VATS can play a pivotal role in your treatment journey. Advanced technology and skilled hands can pave the way to better health and a brighter future.