Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Tuesday January 8, 2008
VATS conversion to a standard thoracotomy


Q;
In how many cases VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery)require intraoperative conversion to a standard thoracotomy ?

A;
In approximately 20% of patients undergoing VATS, intraoperative conversion to a standard thoracotomy will be necessary for any of several reasons, including extensive pleural adhesions and pulmonary lesions that cannot be located thoracoscopically or that necessitate a more extensive resection than can be accomplished endosurgically.

(so keep fingers cross once you send your patient to OR)