Minimally Invasive Surgery
Lung & Chest Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery is being used to diagnose and treat many lung and chest problems, including lung cancer. Minimally invasive lung and chest procedures are done using video-assisted equipment (called video-assisted thorascopy) which enables the surgeon to clearly see the area being operated on, enhancing the accuracy and safety of the procedure.
Video-assisted thorascopy eliminates the need to spread the ribs during chest surgery, and requires only a one-inch incision and three ¼” to ½” incisions (cuts). A miniature video camera is inserted into one of these quarter- to half-inch incisions, enabling the surgeon to clearly see the area being operated on. Video-assisted thorascopy can be more accurate and provide an easier recovery than traditional surgery. It causes less discomfort and results in a quicker recovery than with traditional surgery.
Minimally invasive lung and chest surgery isn’t right for every patient. Before any surgery, the Cooper surgeon will discuss the procedure, including whether to use a minimally invasive or traditional procedure, with the patient in detail.
Biopsy of the Lung
- Biopsy of the Pleural
- Exploration of the Entire Chest Cavity
- Surgery for Lung Collapse
- Surgery for Fluid Accumulation in the Chest
- Bleb Resection
- Lung Resection
- Evaluation of Lymph Nodes in the Mediastinum and Chest
- Removal of Nodules in the Lung
- Esophageal Surgery
- Sympathectomy
For more information on Minimally Invasive Surgery options available at Cooper University Hospital or to schedule an appointment with a Cooper physician, please call our referral and information line at 1-800-8-COOPER (826-6737).
Doctors Who Perform These Procedures