Thoracoscopy

The thoracoscopy referred to a surgical method to look into the chest cavity and to evaluate the pleura ( pleural ) and inserted through the same or other additions instruments or medications.

The instruments usually consists of a tube with a trocar is inserted through the chest wall. Previously, a pneumothorax is generated by opening the chest cavity. The lung collapses by the then lack of negative pressure in the chest cavity. Since then the lungs no longer occupies the entire chest cavity, and the resulting free space in the chest cavity can be seen.

For respiration special procedures must be applied. ( Double-lumen )

A further development is the thoracoscopy with video support, video - assisted thoracoscopy, VATS shortly. This can be performed depending on the type of procedure with flexible endoscopes.

After thoracoscopy, if necessary, by a usually short time remaining chest drainage, a negative pressure in the pleural space generated which unfolds the lungs again.

Fields of application:

• Diagnostically for clarification of findings in the pleural cavity, the pleura ( pleura) and peripheral parts of the lung.
• Operatively to operations on the pleura, the lung, the thoracic spine or the mediastinum.