Minimally Invasive Surgery Means Minimal Pain for the Patient
Performed at the Thoracic Surgery Center at Sentara Heart Hospital, thoracic surgeons operate using the latest advances in technology, including minimally invasive surgery (or laparoscopic) techniques.
Potential benefits to patients include reduced trauma to the body, less blood loss, less postoperative pain, fewer complications, a reduced hospital stay and faster recovery times. |
Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS)
Employs the use of a small video camera and a few customized instruments.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for lung tumorsA procedure that uses waves of heat energy to destroy cancerous tissue. The procedure is a promising alternative to the surgical removal of lung and esophageal tumors.
EBUS (Endoscopic Bronchial Ultrsound)Used to diagnose some abnormalities of the mediastinum.
Sleeve Resection Surgery
A more complex procedure designed to remove a cancerous growth with removal of less healthy lung.
CyberKnife® Stereotactic RadiosurgeryA computer-controlled radiosurgery system that delivers radiation to tumors in the brain, spine and anywhere in the body with sub-millimeter accuracy, while avoiding damage to surrounding healthy tissues.