Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026
04:38
Subcostal Specimen Removal in Completely Portal Robotic Lobectomy
Published on: April 19, 2024
Outcomes after lobectomy using thoracoscopy vs thoracotomy: a comparative effectiveness analysis utilizing the
Subroto Paul1, Art Sedrakyan, Ya-Lin Chiu
1Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, New York Presbyterian Hospital System, New York, NY 10065, USA. pas2022@med.cornell.edu
Summary
Thoracoscopic lobectomy, a minimally invasive approach, shows fewer postoperative complications and shorter hospital stays than open thoracotomy. This study supports its wider adoption in general thoracic surgery.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Health Outcomes Research
Background:
- Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy is suggested to reduce complications versus open thoracotomy.
- Evidence from randomized trials is lacking, leading to skepticism about VATS benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare short-term postoperative outcomes of open versus thoracoscopic lobectomy.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of thoracoscopic lobectomy in a large patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database (2007-2008).
- Inclusion of patients undergoing lobectomy via thoracoscopy or open thoracotomy.
- Propensity score matching to control for preoperative variables.
Main Results:
- A total of 68,350 lobectomies were analyzed (15% thoracoscopic, 85% open).
- Thoracoscopic lobectomy was associated with significantly lower postoperative complication rates (40.8% vs. 45.1%) and shorter hospital stays (5.0 vs. 7.0 days).
- Specific complication reductions observed for arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, and empyema.
Conclusions:
- Thoracoscopic lobectomy is linked to fewer in-hospital complications compared to open lobectomy.
- Findings suggest thoracoscopic lobectomy is suitable for broader application within the general thoracic surgical community.
