Thorakoskops

Thorakoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to visualize and treat conditions within the chest cavity. The term is derived from the Greek words "thorax" meaning chest, and "skopein" meaning to look. The procedure is typically performed using a thoracoscope, a flexible tube equipped with a camera and light source, which is inserted through a small incision in the chest wall. Thorakoscopy allows surgeons to directly view and manipulate structures within the chest, such as the lungs, heart, and mediastinum, without the need for a full thoracotomy.

There are several types of thorakoscopy, including video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and thoracoscopic lung biopsy. VATS is commonly used for the removal of lung tissue, such as in the treatment of lung cancer. Thoracoscopic lung biopsy involves the removal of a small sample of lung tissue for diagnostic purposes. The procedure is generally associated with shorter hospital stays, reduced pain, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

Thorakoscopy is indicated for various conditions, including lung cancer, lung infections, and mediastinal masses. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, and patients are usually admitted to the hospital for a few days. Post-operative care involves monitoring for complications such as pneumothorax, bleeding, and infection. Thorakoscopy has become a standard approach in the management of many thoracic conditions due to its minimally invasive nature and favorable outcomes.