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Updated: May 10, 2026
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Non-Intubated Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery
Published on: May 26, 2023
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for acute thoracic trauma
Michael Goodman1, Jaime Lewis, Julian Guitron
1Division of Trauma and Critical Care, Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.
Journal of Emergencies, Trauma, and Shock
|June 1, 2013
Summary
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery safely manages thoracic trauma in stable patients within 24 hours. This minimally invasive approach avoids thoracotomy, reducing recovery time for chest injuries.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Thoracic trauma management traditionally involves thoracotomy.
- The study investigated thoracoscopy as an alternative for acute thoracic injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for acute thoracic trauma.
- To determine if VATS can be a viable alternative to thoracotomy in specific trauma cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of a Level I trauma center's registry (1999-2010).
- Included patients undergoing video-assisted thoracic procedures within 24 hours of admission.
- Collected data on patient vitals, operative indications, intraoperative course, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- 23 patients met inclusion criteria (3 blunt, 20 penetrating trauma).
- Indications included diaphragmatic/esophageal injury, retained hemothorax, hemorrhage, and pneumothorax.
- No conversions to thoracotomy or re-operations were needed; mean chest tube duration was 2.9 days, mean hospital stay was 5.6 days.
Conclusions:
- Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery is a safe and effective option for managing thoracic trauma.
- VATS is suitable for hemodynamically stable patients within 24 hours post-injury.
- This approach offers a less invasive alternative to thoracotomy for specific thoracic injuries.
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