How is lung nodule surgery performed, and can it be done using minimally invasive techniques?
May 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Qifeng
Introduction
Lung nodule surgery involves removing the nodule either through thoracoscopy or by open thoracotomy. If the patient's condition is mild, minimally invasive surgery can be performed; however, if the condition is more severe with adhesions present, minimally invasive surgery is not suitable. Specifically: when the patient's condition is mild and the nodule diameter is small, minimally invasive surgery can be conducted.
Lung nodule surgery involves removing the nodule either through thoracoscopy or via open thoracotomy. If the patient's condition is mild, minimally invasive surgery may be performed; however, if the condition is severe with existing adhesions, minimally invasive surgery is not suitable. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Suitable for minimally invasive surgery
Minimally invasive lung nodule surgery is primarily indicated for patients with lung infections or early-stage lung cancer. If the patient’s condition is mild and the nodule diameter is small, a minimally invasive approach can be used. One to three small incisions are made in the patient's axillary region, through which a thoracoscope is inserted. The surgeon then separates normal tissues, removes the lesion, and performs irrigation of the pleural cavity to prevent postoperative adhesions.
2. Not suitable for minimally invasive surgery
If the patient's condition is more serious and adhesions around the nodule are already present, minimally invasive surgery becomes technically challenging. It may be difficult to adequately separate the adhesions using this approach, making traditional open thoracotomy necessary.
After surgery, patients should rest in bed and avoid strenuous activities. Regular follow-up visits are recommended. If symptoms such as wound redness and swelling, difficulty breathing, or other abnormalities occur, prompt re-evaluation is required.
