1) Review the recent history of minimally invasive thoracic surgery for lung cancer. 2) Clearly define the term "VATS lobectomy". 3) Evaluate the feasibility, safety, equivalency, and efficacy of a VATS lobectomy. 4) Explore the role of robotic surgery for lung cancer.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
The first VATS lobectomy for cancer was reported in 1992. Early literature failed to demonstrate a benefit over the standard open approach. Modern literature shows that the VATS lobectomy can be performed safely with similar mortality, morbidity and long-term survival to the open approach. It is associated with shorter hospital stays, decreased postoperative pain and more rapid postoperative recovery.
Robotic surgical systems became available in 1999 and continue to be more common. It offers advantages and disadvantages compared to VATS technology and requires ongoing evaluation.
Tisol, W,
Surgical Management of Primary Lung Cancer. Radiological Society of North America 2008 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, February 18 - February 20, 2008 ,Chicago IL.
http://archive.rsna.org/2008/6007111.html
