Medical Terms

Medical Terms

If you are experiencing persistent chest pain, difficulty breathing, chronic coughing, coughing up blood, or unexplained weight loss, it may indicate an underlying thoracic condition requiring surgical evaluation.

While modern surgical techniques have reduced complications, thoracic surgery carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, prolonged air leaks, pneumonia, and blood clots. The likelihood of complications depends on the patient’s overall health, underlying lung condition, and the complexity of the surgery. Robotic and minimally invasive techniques significantly reduce these risks and improve patient outcomes.

Yes, but activity should be resumed gradually. Walking is encouraged early in recovery to improve lung function and circulation. Strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting or intense exercise, should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of surgery performed. Patients should follow their surgeon’s recommendations for a safe return to physical activity.

VATS is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat thoracic conditions. Instead of making a large incision in the chest, the surgeon inserts a small camera and surgical instruments through tiny incisions. This approach allows for faster recovery, reduced pain, and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional open surgery. VATS is commonly used for lung biopsies, pleural disease management, and early-stage lung cancer resections.