Thoracoscopic S1 segmentectomy, right upper lobe: alternative posterior approach

Minimally invasive pulmonary segmentectomy allows adequate oncological treatment in selected cases while preserving lung parenchyma and minimizing perioperative morbidity and length of hospital stay. Although several variations of minimally invasive pulmonary segmentectomy have been described, a fully thoracoscopic multiport approach that allows direct access to the segmental structures, is straightforward and is versatile enough to allow adaptation in case of unexpected intraoperative findings (such as conversion to lobectomy in the case of positive margins) is preferable. The S1 (apical) segment of the right upper lobe has some unique features that may make a conventional anterior approach challenging. The presence of multiple vascular structures bearing complex anatomical relationships and the requirement for preserving these structures may make identification of and access to the apical artery, and subsequent access to the segmental bronchus, challenging. In contradistinction, a posterior approach may obviate some of these challenges by allowing direct access to the segmental bronchus. Once the bronchus is divided, the apical artery is in direct alignment with the operating instruments, without encroachment from other troublesome vascular structures. This situation, however, remains contingent on individual anatomy, which may vary.