[Video-assisted pneumonectomies: lessons learned from an experimental study on an animal model]

In order to test the feasibility of video-assisted pneumonectomy, we conducted an experimental study in an animal model. We performed 12 attempts of video-assisted pneumonectomy (7 on the right side and 5 on the left side) in pigs with an average weight of 43.5 kg. We used a combined technique of conventional and endoscopic dissection. A complication-free pneumonectomy was possible in 7 animals. Among the remaining 5 animals, 6 vascular injuries occurred, one of which was lethal. Two other animals died during the procedure for unknown reasons. We conclude that: 1) the vascular risk of video-assisted pneumonectomy appears to be prohibitive; 2) the value of animal models for vats feasibility studies is questionable because of the major differences in anatomical conditions.