Uniportal middle lobectomy after a previous right upper lobectomy

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has evolved, with uniportal approaches gaining traction for complex thoracic procedures.
• Uniportal VATS aims to enhance patient outcomes through smaller incisions and improved visualization.
• Redo thoracoscopic surgery presents unique challenges due to prior adhesions and anatomical alterations.

Observation:

• A 55-year-old female patient with a history of right-upper lobectomy underwent a redo-thoracoscopy.
• The procedure utilized a 3.5 cm single-incision (uniportal) VATS approach for a middle-lobe lobectomy.
• The uniportal VATS facilitated clear visualization and dissection during the complex redo surgery.

Findings:

• The uniportal VATS approach demonstrated potential for superior pain management post-operatively.
• Patients undergoing uniportal VATS may experience earlier mobilization compared to traditional methods.
• Shorter hospital stays are often associated with uniportal VATS procedures.
• The technique provided safe and clear visualization, crucial for dissecting during complex redo thoracoscopic surgery.

Implications:

• Uniportal VATS may represent a safer and more effective approach for complex thoracic surgeries, including redo procedures.
• Enhanced visualization and patient recovery benefits suggest wider adoption of uniportal VATS.
• This case highlights the feasibility of uniportal VATS for middle-lobe lobectomy in patients with prior thoracic surgery.