Private Hospital Thoracic Care with Mr Marco Scarci

When you or someone in your family faces a lung or chest condition, waiting weeks for answers is not just frustrating—it can feel genuinely frightening. I understand this deeply, which is why I have built my private practice around providing fast access to expert thoracic surgery in London, centrally located in the city for maximum accessibility. This article is intended for patients and families considering private thoracic care in London. Choosing the right care pathway can significantly impact your health outcomes and peace of mind. The private hospital provides specialized care for both adults and children, ensuring comprehensive family care. A private hospital is a healthcare facility that offers enhanced privacy, comfort, and specialized care, but most do not have accident and emergency (A&E) or intensive care units (ITU). Whether you are dealing with a suspected lung cancer diagnosis, a collapsed lung, or persistent chest symptoms that remain unexplained, I am here to help you move forward with confidence.

In this article, I will walk you through everything you need to know about receiving thoracic care in a private hospital setting: from your first appointment through to surgery, recovery, and beyond. My aim is to give you the information you need to make an informed decision about your healthcare journey.

Fast Access to a Private Thoracic Surgeon in London

I offer rapid access private thoracic surgery in London for patients with lung and chest conditions. In most cases, I can see new patients within 48 to 72 hours of first contact. This speed matters enormously when you are worried about symptoms or facing a diagnosis that needs prompt attention.

You do not need to wait for a long NHS referral pathway to see me. Patients can contact my team directly, whether you plan to use private medical insurance or prefer to self-pay. My secretary will guide you through the process and ensure you are booked into the earliest available appointment at a time to suit your schedule. Our doctors are highly accessible, and same-day appointments with doctors are often possible for urgent cases.

The most common reasons patients seek me privately include suspected lung cancer requiring urgent diagnosis and treatment, recurrent pneumothorax (collapsed lung) causing repeated emergency admissions, unexplained chest wall pain, rib fractures that are not healing properly, and breathlessness where the underlying cause remains uncertain. For each of these, early assessment can make a significant difference to your outcome and peace of mind. Through self-pay options, you have access to a wide range of treatments, offering flexibility and convenience to match your needs.

I provide both in-person consultations at leading London private hospitals and virtual consultations via secure video link. The virtual option is particularly valuable for patients elsewhere in the UK or those travelling from overseas who want an initial assessment before committing to a visit.

My locations in central and west London are accessible and well-equipped for comprehensive thoracic assessment. I work closely with dedicated teams who understand the urgency of chest conditions and share my commitment to outstanding patient care.

If you are experiencing worrying chest or lung symptoms and want to speak with a specialist without delay, please contact my office today to arrange your appointment.

Why Choose a Private Hospital for Thoracic Surgery?

Private hospitals in London can offer significant advantages for patients needing thoracic surgery: shorter waiting times, greater flexibility in scheduling, and the reassurance of seeing the same consultant throughout your entire care journey. For conditions where time is critical, these benefits can genuinely affect outcomes.

Rapid Diagnostic Access

One of the most tangible advantages of private healthcare is speed of investigation. In my private practice, I can typically arrange CT scans, PET-CT imaging, lung function tests, bronchoscopy, and cardiopulmonary assessment within days rather than weeks. This rapid access means we can reach a diagnosis quickly and begin treatment without unnecessary delays.

For context, NHS England data has shown that a proportion of patients with suspected lung cancer wait longer than the 62-day target from referral to first treatment. In my private practice, I routinely complete investigations and proceed to surgery within two to three weeks of the initial consultation when clinically appropriate.

Modern Facilities and Equipment

I operate in leading London private hospitals equipped with modern theatres, high-definition thoracoscopic systems, and robotic-assisted surgical technology. These facilities also have high-dependency units and intensive care back-up available around the clock, ensuring the highest levels of safety for complex procedures.

Enhanced Recovery Environment

Private rooms, flexible visiting hours for family members, and tailored physiotherapy support can all contribute to a smoother recovery after procedures such as VATS lobectomy or bullectomy. The environment is designed around your comfort and needs, which makes a real difference in the days following surgery.

Impartial Advice

I also work within the NHS, and this dual perspective allows me to advise you honestly about when private care is genuinely advantageous and when NHS timing and facilities are already perfectly appropriate for your situation. My priority is always your best outcome, regardless of setting.

My Specialist Services

I am a consultant thoracic surgeon focusing exclusively on chest and lung conditions. Private hospitals offer a wide range of specialties, including orthopaedics, cardiology, gynaecology, and general surgery. Patients in private healthcare can access a wider range of specialists and advanced medical technologies. All surgery I perform is tailored to the individual patient, taking into account your specific diagnosis, general health, and personal preferences.

Areas of Expertise

My specialist areas include lung cancer surgery, pneumothorax management, chest wall deformities, rib fractures, hyperhidrosis, thymoma, emphysema, and mesothelioma and other pleural diseases (from early-stage to selected locally advanced cases; including pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum; and complex non-healing rib fractures; hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating); thymoma and other mediastinal tumours; emphysema requiring lung volume reduction surgery).

Minimally Invasive Philosophy

I prioritise minimally invasive approaches wherever clinically appropriate. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and, in selected cases, robotic-assisted techniques allow me to achieve excellent outcomes while reducing pain, scarring, and hospital stay compared with traditional open surgery. Most of my patients are surprised by how quickly they can return to normal life after keyhole surgery.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

I work closely with respiratory physicians, oncologists, radiologists, and specialist thoracic anaesthetists in each private hospital to create a comprehensive, multidisciplinary plan for every patient. This network of expertise ensures that your care is coordinated and that no aspect of your treatment is overlooked.

Second Opinions

I regularly provide second opinions for patients already under the care of other teams in the UK or overseas. If you have received a diagnosis or treatment recommendation and want another expert perspective, I am happy to review your case and discuss your options openly.

Conditions I Treat in a Private Hospital Setting

In my private practice, I commonly manage a defined set of thoracic conditions. Private hospitals provide access to a wide range of treatments for both adults and children, ensuring comprehensive care for all age groups. Additionally, some private hospitals offer access to specific drugs, treatments, or procedures that are not fully funded within the public health system. Below, I describe each one and explain how private hospital resources—including on-site imaging, pathology, and intensive care—allow me to investigate and treat these problems efficiently and safely.

Lung Cancer

I treat early and advanced non-small cell lung cancer, as well as selected small cell cases suitable for surgical resection. Surgery remains the best chance of cure for many patients with localised disease, and private hospital access means I can move from diagnosis to operation without the delays that sometimes occur in overstretched NHS pathways.

Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)

Recurrent or spontaneous pneumothorax affects young adults and older patients alike, often causing repeated emergency hospital admissions. I offer definitive surgical treatment—typically VATS bullectomy and pleurodesis—to prevent further episodes and restore quality of life.

Chest Wall Deformities

Pectus excavatum (sunken chest) and pectus carinatum (pigeon chest) can affect both appearance and, in some cases, cardiopulmonary function. I perform corrective surgery in adults and older adolescents, helping patients gain confidence and improve symptoms.

Rib Fractures

Multiple or non-healing rib fractures, including flail chest injuries, can cause severe pain and impair breathing. Surgical rib fixation using modern plating systems can transform recovery, reducing pain and shortening time to return to normal activities.

Hyperhidrosis

Excessive sweating of the hands and underarms (hyperhidrosis) can be socially and professionally debilitating. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy is a highly effective procedure that I perform as a day-case or overnight stay in a private hospital.

Thymoma and Mediastinal Masses

Thymoma and other anterior mediastinal masses require careful assessment and, often, surgical removal. I offer both open and minimally invasive approaches depending on tumour size and location.

Emphysema

For carefully selected patients with advanced emphysema, lung volume reduction surgery can improve breathlessness and exercise tolerance. I assess each case individually to determine whether surgery will offer genuine benefit.

Pleural Disease

This includes mesothelioma and recurrent pleural effusions causing breathlessness. I provide surgical options for diagnosis (thoracoscopy and biopsy), symptom control (pleurodesis), and, where appropriate, radical treatment.

Treatments and Surgical Techniques

My practice is built around modern, minimally invasive thoracic surgery, performed in fully equipped London private hospitals. Here, I explain the key techniques I use and what you can expect from each.

Lung Cancer Surgery

For lung cancer and benign lung nodules, I perform VATS lobectomy (removal of a lung lobe), segmentectomy (removal of a lung segment), and wedge resection (removal of a small portion of lung tissue). These keyhole procedures offer excellent cancer clearance with faster recovery than traditional open surgery.

Pneumothorax Surgery

VATS bullectomy removes the abnormal air blebs that cause recurrent collapsed lung, while pleurodesis encourages the lung to adhere to the chest wall, preventing further pneumothorax episodes. Most patients go home within two to three days.

Hyperhidrosis Surgery

VATS sympathectomy interrupts the nerve signals that cause excessive sweating. The procedure typically takes less than an hour and produces immediate, life-changing results for most patients.

Chest Wall Reconstruction

For rib fractures and chest wall tumours, I perform reconstruction using modern titanium plates and other implants. This restores chest wall stability, reduces pain, and speeds return to normal activities.

Mediastinal Tumour Surgery

I remove thymoma and other mediastinal tumours using minimally invasive techniques where appropriate, or through open surgery when tumour size or position requires it.

Lung Volume Reduction Surgery

In selected patients with severe emphysema, removal of the most damaged lung tissue can improve breathing mechanics and quality of life.

Recovery After Keyhole Surgery

The advantages of minimally invasive surgery in a private hospital are substantial. After VATS lobectomy, for example, typical hospital stay is two to four days, post-operative pain is significantly reduced, and most patients return to work and normal activities within four to six weeks.

Anaesthesia and Aftercare

You will be cared for by experienced thoracic anaesthetists, and my team will manage your pain control throughout your stay. Physiotherapy begins immediately after surgery to optimise lung function and prevent complications. You will receive a clear plan for aftercare, including follow-up appointments and support if you have any concerns after discharge.

Virtual Consultations and International Patients

I regularly provide virtual consultations via secure video platforms for patients across the UK and from abroad. This accessible approach means you can receive expert advice without travelling to London for an initial appointment.

How a Virtual Consultation Works

The process is straightforward. You or your referring doctor contacts my office, and my secretary arranges a convenient time for your video consultation. Before the appointment, you share relevant CT scans, reports, and letters. During the consultation, I review your imaging, discuss your diagnosis and options in detail, and answer your questions. Afterwards, you receive a written summary with my recommendations.

Coordinating Care for International Patients

International patients can often have investigations such as CT, PET-CT, and lung function tests arranged in London immediately before surgery. This approach minimises time away from home and allows efficient planning. My team is experienced in coordinating care for patients travelling from overseas and will provide full support throughout your journey.

When Virtual Consultation Is Appropriate

Virtual appointments are ideal for second opinions, pre-operative counselling, and post-operative follow-up. However, if you have emergency symptoms—such as sudden severe breathlessness, chest pain, or coughing up blood—you should seek urgent in-person assessment rather than waiting for a scheduled video call.

Patient Pathway in a Private Hospital

From your first contact to recovery at home, your care is led by me as your named consultant. Here, I set out the complete pathway so you know exactly what to expect at each stage.

Initial Enquiry

When you phone or email my office, my secretary will discuss your situation and offer the next available appointment—often within two to three working days. She will explain what information to bring and answer any practical questions.

First Consultation

Your first consultation takes place in clinic or via video. I review your imaging and test results, examine you if in person, and discuss your diagnosis and treatment options. You will have time to ask questions and consider the information before making any decision.

Investigations

If further tests are needed, I arrange these within the private hospital—typically completed within one week. This may include CT or PET-CT scans, bronchoscopy, lung function testing, or other specialist assessments.

Multidisciplinary Team Input

Where appropriate, your case is discussed with respiratory physicians, oncologists, and radiologists to ensure a fully coordinated plan. This is especially important for complex lung cancer cases.

Pre-Assessment and Anaesthetic Review

Before surgery, you attend a pre-assessment clinic where nursing staff and an anaesthetist review your health, medications, and fitness for the procedure. This ensures everything is in place for a safe operation.

Admission and Surgery

You are admitted on the day of surgery. Following your operation, you recover in a high-dependency area or ward, depending on the procedure. Typical length of stay ranges from overnight (for minor procedures) to four or five days (for major lung resections).

Discharge and Follow-Up

Before you go home, my team provides a clear discharge plan covering pain control, wound care, physiotherapy exercises, and warning signs to watch for. Follow-up appointments are arranged in clinic and, if preferred, via phone or video. I remain available if you have any concerns during your recovery.

Speed From Diagnosis to Treatment

For conditions such as lung cancer, this coordinated private hospital pathway can significantly shorten the time from diagnosis to medical treatment—giving you the best possible chance of a good outcome.

Safety, Outcomes and Quality Standards

Patient safety is central to every decision I make. I only operate in private hospitals with robust critical care facilities and governance frameworks that meet the highest standards.

Safety Measures in London Private Hospitals

The hospitals where I work provide consultant-delivered care, experienced thoracic anaesthetists, 24/7 on-site medical cover, and immediate access to intensive care units when needed. This infrastructure ensures that even complex thoracic surgery can be performed safely.

Auditing Outcomes

I actively audit my outcomes—including complications, readmissions, and length of stay—and review these in clinical governance meetings across both my private and NHS practice. Transparency about outcomes is essential for continuous improvement.

Care Quality Commission Regulation

All private hospitals I work in are regulated by the Care Quality Commission. This independent body inspects hospitals and rates them for safety, effectiveness, responsiveness, and leadership. Hospitals rated good or outstanding have demonstrated high standards of care across these domains.

Infection Control and Enhanced Recovery

Infection control protocols, thrombosis prevention measures, and enhanced recovery pathways are standard in my practice. These evidence-based approaches reduce the risk of complications after thoracic surgery and support faster return to normal health.

Transparency About Risks

When planning any operation, I am always transparent about both risks and potential benefit. You will receive clear information about what to expect, and I encourage you to ask questions so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Paying for Private Thoracic Care

Millions of people in the UK are covered by private medical insurance, making private hospital care a familiar and accessible option for many.

Patients can see me privately either through UK or international health insurance or by self-funding (self-pay). Both options are straightforward, and my team is here to guide you through the process.

Self-pay private healthcare is more affordable with monthly payment plans, making it accessible to more patients. Patients can pay for their care at private hospitals using self-pay options and can choose to pay for their treatment directly without insurance. Flexible payment plans are available for self-pay patients. Please note that many private insurance plans do not cover chronic, long-term conditions.

If You Have Insurance

If you hold private medical insurance, you will usually need a GP referral letter and authorisation from your insurer before your appointment. Contact your insurer to confirm cover for thoracic surgery consultations and any subsequent procedures. Please provide your authorisation number when booking so my team can liaise with your insurance company.

If You Are Self-Funding

For self-pay patients, my team provides a clear, itemised quote in advance. This covers consultation fees, diagnostic tests, hospital charges, surgeon and anaesthetist fees, and expected follow-up costs. There are no hidden extras—you will know the cost before you commit.

Payment Plans

Some private hospitals offer payment plans and financing options for eligible patients. My secretary can provide details and discuss what may be available for your specific treatment.

Second Opinions

I offer second opinion consultations for patients who want an independent view of their diagnosis or recommended treatment. The fee for a second opinion consultation is provided on request, and I ask that you send relevant letters, scans, and histology reports in advance so I can review your case thoroughly.

If you are unsure how to use your insurance or have questions about cost, please contact my office. We are committed to making the process as transparent and affordable as possible.

How to Choose the Right Private Hospital and Surgeon

London has many private hospitals and thoracic surgeons, and choosing the right combination can feel overwhelming. For example, Clifton Park Hospital in York, operated by Ramsay Health Care UK, has been rated ‘good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Spire Healthcare has 38 hospitals and over 50 clinics across the UK, providing a wide range of services. Circle Health Group offers a variety of specialties, including orthopaedics, cardiology, and gynaecology. HCA Healthcare UK provides exceptional specialist care in all areas of medicine across its network of hospitals and treatment centres, with over 3000 specialists across its hospitals, outpatients, and medical centres. Cromwell Hospital, located in the Kensington area of London, treats both adults and children, features an Integrated Cancer Campus for rapid access to the latest cancer treatments, and is recognized for its Liver and Renal Centre specializing in complex conditions. I want to offer some practical advice to help you make an informed decision.

Criteria to Consider

When selecting a surgeon and hospital, consider the following:

Matching Hospital to Procedure

Not every hospital is equally suited to every operation. I am happy to discuss openly why a particular London private hospital is better suited to major lung resections, while another may be ideal for minor day-case procedures such as sympathectomy.

Preparing for Your Consultation

Before your appointment, prepare a list of questions. Ask about expected outcomes, complication rates, and alternatives to surgery. A good consultant will welcome these questions and answer them honestly.

Seeking a second opinion is entirely acceptable and often valuable. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to contact another specialist before making your decision.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes

Hearing from other patients can be reassuring when considering private thoracic surgery. Here, I share some typical stories from my practice—anonymised to protect privacy—that illustrate what patients can expect.

Early-Stage Lung Cancer

A person in their sixties was found to have an early-stage lung cancer on a routine CT scan. After a rapid assessment in my private clinic and staging with PET-CT, they underwent VATS lobectomy within two weeks of first seeing me. Their hospital stay was three days, pain was well controlled, and they returned to golf and normal life within six weeks.

Recurrent Pneumothorax

A young adult had suffered three episodes of collapsed lung in a year, each requiring emergency hospital admission. After VATS bullectomy and pleurodesis in a London private hospital, they have had no further episodes. The ability to plan surgery around university exams was particularly important for them and their family.

International Patient with Thymoma

An international patient contacted me for a second opinion on a mediastinal mass diagnosed in their home country. After virtual consultation and review of imaging, they travelled to London for investigations and surgery. Their thymoma was removed using minimally invasive surgery, and they returned home within ten days, with follow-up via video.

Common Themes

Across these stories, patients consistently highlight reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, the ability to plan treatment around work and family commitments, and close communication with me and my team throughout. Written testimonials and independent reviews reflect high satisfaction with both clinical outcomes and the private hospital environment.

Next Steps: Booking a Private Consultation

If you would like to arrange a consultation, please contact my office by phone, email, or via the enquiry form on my website. My secretary will respond promptly and offer you the next available appointment.

What to Have Ready

When you contact my team, please have the following information available if possible:

• A brief summary of your symptoms or diagnosis

• Details of any previous scans, letters, or test results

• Your insurance details (if applicable)

This helps us prepare for your consultation and ensures we can make the most of your appointment time.

Urgent Cases

If you have an urgent concern—such as suspected lung cancer or severe breathlessness—please let my secretary know. I prioritise urgent cases and will schedule your appointment as quickly as hospital capacity safely allows.

A Final Word

If you are experiencing worrying chest or lung symptoms, I encourage you not to wait. Timely assessment can make a real difference to your outcome and your peace of mind. I am proud to offer world class, specialist thoracic care in a private hospital setting, and I would be honoured to support you and your family through your healthcare journey.

Please get in touch today. I look forward to hearing from you and to providing the expert, personalised care you deserve.