Onkológia 5/2015

VATS resections for lung cancer – our first experiences

The authors from the Thoracic Surgery Department of University Hospital in Bratislava introduced the metod in April 2012. VATS lobectomies are standardized curative procedures in the treatment of early stages of lung carcinoma in experienced centres all over the world. The thoracoscopic approach leads to the reduction of negative influences on the patient‘s immune system in comparison with open operations. It lowers the risk of complications during the healing process. Oncological principles of radicality are not compromised with this method, moreover, the removal of lymph nodes is more effective than with the open approach. The authors performed 62 VATS lobectomies in the period from April 2012 to the end of August 2015. Conversion to open thoracotomy was necessary six times, twice because of dense adhesions, twice due to strong bleeding, once due to a massive air leak and once because of progression of the cancer. Eight postoperative complications were noticed. VATS lobectomies were performed for both malignant and benign lesions. VATS resections seem to be a benefitial procedure for the patient because of shorter hospital stay, lower morbidity and mortality, improved lung functions and better recovery. There is a better chance for the patient to receive adjuvant therapy faster, which means better a survival rate.

Keywords: VATS lobectomy, lymphadenectomy, VATS pneumonectomy, VATS bronchoplasty.