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Updated: Jul 24, 2026

Non-Intubated Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery
Published on: May 26, 2023
Thoracoscopic surgery in infants and children
B M Ure1, A I Schmidt, N K Jesch
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hannover Medical University, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany. ure.benno@mh-hannover.de
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is safe for pediatric thoracic conditions, offering potential benefits like reduced morbidity and costs. Further research is needed to fully understand its advantages and limitations in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is increasingly utilized in pediatric populations.
- Existing literature suggests VATS may offer advantages over open procedures in children.
- However, comprehensive data on its application across various pediatric thoracic conditions is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of VATS for pediatric thoracic conditions.
- To synthesize existing evidence on the feasibility and outcomes of VATS in infants and children.
- To identify gaps in knowledge regarding the advantages and limitations of VATS in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published literature on VATS for pediatric thoracic surgery.
- Analysis of studies reporting on single and multiple procedures.
- Evaluation of data concerning patient demographics, procedural outcomes, and complications.
Main Results:
- VATS is demonstrated as a safe and feasible surgical option for specific thoracic conditions in newborns, infants, and children.
- Potential benefits include lower morbidity, shorter hospital stays, and reduced costs compared to open surgery.
- Most studies focus on individual procedures, with limited data on larger series and diverse interventions.
Conclusions:
- VATS is a viable surgical technique for pediatric thoracic conditions, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
- Further systematic research is mandatory to comprehensively evaluate the advantages and limitations of VATS in pediatric patients.
- Expanded studies with larger patient cohorts and varied procedures are essential for definitive conclusions.
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