Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery -- 718.780.7700

Patients whose conditions necessitate surgery of lung, esophagus, chest wall, diaphragm, or other structures within the chest, will receive care from a surgeon board-certified in thoracic surgery in one of NYM's state-of-the-art operating suites.

Each patient is cared for through the coordinated efforts of a team of experienced surgeons, pulmonologists (doctors who specialize in lung diseases), cardiothoracic anesthesiologists, gastroenterologists (doctors who specialize in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the stomach, and the intestines), medical and radiation oncologists, intensivists (a doctor who practices intensive care medicine), surgical and intensive care nurses, and respiratory therapists.

Our thoracic surgeons are experts in the treatment of end-stage lung disease such as lung cancer and emphysema. Many procedures can be performed using minimally-invasive surgery.

The standard surgical approach for the treatment of lung cancer includes a large, rib spreading incision.  It is now possible to provide a less invasive procedure for certain patients.  A minimally invasive thorascoscopic lobectomy allows the surgeon to use laparoscopic techniques to view the chest cavity and remove a portion of a lung or the entire lung.  Patients who have this less invasive procedure can expect improved breathing function earlier, as well as less pain.  

Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS)
VATS is a way to look at the lungs by placing a tiny telescope and surgical tools through small incisions in the chest. The telescope is connected to a video camera that lets the surgeon see a picture of the lungs. Through the incisions, surgeons can remove pieces of cancerous tissue.

The openings made for VATS are smaller, which means less pain and fewer complications for patients. Lastly patients usually leave the hospital sooner with VATS than traditional surgery.

For more information, call 718.780.7700.