Thoracoscopy

Thoracoscopy is often used to repair a collapsed lung; to examine, biopsy, and stage a mass in the lung; or to drain fluid from around the lungs. During thoracoscopy, your surgeon can look into your chest and perform procedures through small incisions in the chest wall. If a thoracoscopy can't be continued, a thoracotomy (open procedure) may be necessary.

Preparing for Your Surgery

• Ask your doctor any questions you have about the procedure.

• Have blood tests or other tests that your doctor orders.

• If you smoke, stop immediately.

• Tell your doctor about any medications you're taking (including aspirin), and ask if you should stop them. Also mention any vitamins, herbs, or other supplements you take.

• Don't eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery, or as directed.

• Be sure to arrive at the hospital on time the day of your surgery.

Possible incision sites

The Surgical Procedure

• The anesthesiologist gives you general anesthesia, which lets you sleep and keeps you free from pain during surgery. Once you're asleep, you're positioned comfortably on your side.

• Several small incisions are made in your side.

• The surgeon inserts a thin, tubelike instrument containing a tiny camera through one of the incisions. This camera allows the surgeon to view your lungs on a video monitor. Surgical instruments are inserted through the other incisions.

• When the procedure is finished, one or more tubes may be temporarily placed in the chest to drain fluid and air. The incisions are then closed with sutures or staples.