VATS lobectomy technique is one of the latest surgical techniques performed in Turkey to treat lung cancer because it is safe and has few complications after the operation.
Video-assisted thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive procedure used in Turkey to remove the affected part of the lung. It is the most appropriate treatment for removing a tumor or mass that compresses the pulmonary vessels or airways (bronchial tubes) near the center of the lung.
Due to its sensitive location, VATS lobectomy is considered one of the most delicate and complex operations in thoracic surgery. However, it is nonetheless highly important because of its advantages, which make it superior to traditional surgery. Read this article to learn more about this process and how it is performed in Turkey.
Reasons for Resection of part of the lung
Laparoscopic resection of part of the lung is usually the main treatment for people with early-stage lung cancer, in addition to a group of cases in which we can resort to pulmonary lobectomy, such as:
- Polyps; If it causes bothersome symptoms or affect lung function
- Pulmonary tuberculosis
- Pulmonary embolism
- Pulmonary emphysema
- Lung abscess
- Lung abnormalities
The difference between laparoscopic and open surgery
After the great medical development that Turkey has witnessed in recent decades, open surgery has been dispensed with in many thoracic operations, and endoscopic thoracic surgery has been introduced in its place. Here are the most important advantages of laparoscopic pulmonary lobectomy compared to open surgery:
| Laparoscopic surgery | Open surgery |
The surgery is performed through a small hole in the chest, which reduces damage to surrounding tissue and bleeding. | It is performed through a wide surgical incision in the chest, which increases the damage to the surrounding tissue. |
| Less painful recovery period due to less intervention and less tissue damage | The patient experiences pain during the recovery period due to the large intervention on the chest. |
| Less risk of complications | Greater risk of complications |
| The results are more aesthetic, and the effects of surgery are less noticeable because the holes are small | It leaves large scars and obvious surgical effects on the chest |
| Recovery after laparoscopic surgery is faster | Recovery after open surgery takes longer |
| On average, laparoscopic surgery is less expensive due to the shorter hospital stay and recovery period—except for some special cases. | Open surgery can be more expensive due to the longer hospital stay and recovery period. |
Instructions before the operation
It is necessary to conduct a number of tests and examinations to evaluate the patient’s condition and determine the extent of the effect of the surgery on his body the day before the operation. These tests include the following:
- Blood test: to determine hemoglobin levels and the number of red and white cells in the blood.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): To evaluate the health of the heart and determine if the patient has any heart problems.
- Chest X-ray: To evaluate the size and location of the tumor and determine its suitability for endoscopic resection.
- Breathing examination: to determine the strength and efficiency of the lungs and test the patient’s ability to breathe properly.
- General health assessment: This includes an assessment of the patient’s general condition, medical history, and medications he or she is taking.
- Urinalysis: To determine the level of protein, sugar, and creatinine in the urine.
- Stress test: To evaluate the patient’s ability to endure and cope with surgery and anesthesia.
How is VATS lobectomy performed?
VATS lobectomy in Turkey is performed according to the following basic steps:
- The patient is given general anesthesia before the surgical procedure begins.
- After anesthesia, a special tube is inserted into the airway, allowing the healthy lung to be ventilated while the operation is performed on the affected lung.
- The surgeon makes about 1-3 skin incisions to insert the laparoscope and other surgical instruments.
- After the endoscope is inserted, carbon dioxide gas is pumped into the chest cavity to provide enough space for surgery.
- The arteries and veins connected to the affected pulmonary lobe are then connected, and the surgeon then removes that lobe.
- The doctor inserts a drainage tube (explosive) in order to empty the air into the chest cavity and relieve pressure so the affected lung expands.
- Finally, the skin incisions are closed and sutured appropriately.
Here is a video shows how to remove lung cancer in a 45-year-old patient in Turkey using VATS lobectomy technology.
Recovery after the operation
The patient needs to stay in the hospital for 3-4 days after the operation in Turkey until he can get up and return to his home. If you are from outside Turkey, you may need to stay in the hotel for two or three days before you can travel to your country of origin.
Some methods must be followed after a lobectomy to achieve optimal benefit from the operation and accelerate recovery from it:
- Get enough rest and avoid strenuous activities for a period ranging from two weeks to two months.
- Avoid smoking for two weeks to two months after surgery.
- To speed up the healing process, follow a healthy diet and eat foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Follow the treatment prescribed by the doctor and follow the instructions carefully.
- Start physical activity gradually after consulting your physician.
- The patient must follow the necessary tests to evaluate his condition after surgery and ensure that there are no complications.
Complications of VATS lobectomy
Although VATS Lobectomy is considered safe, it may have some potential complications, which include the following:
- Inflammation of the wound resulted from infection from tools that were not sterilized well but at a somewhat small rate.
- If the surgeon does not use a drain after surgery, air accumulation in the chest cavity (pneumothorax) may occur.
- An accumulation of fluid in the chest (pleural effusion) may occur.
- Some people may have difficulty breathing after surgery.
These complications rarely occur if the surgeon is an experienced laparoscopic surgeon, but it is important to stay in contact with the medical team after surgery to monitor any potential problems and receive the necessary care.
The success rate of VATS lobectomy
The results of VATS lobectomy are usually excellent. Most of the cases that underwent this operation achieved great success and the patient was able to return to his normal activity quickly after surgery. However, the results of surgery may vary from one case to another depending on the patient’s health condition and the type of surgery performed.
Contact us to get a free consultation from a specialist doctor and understand the exact details about the results of surgery in your particular case.
The success rate of VATS lobectomy may vary from one patient to another, but on average, it is about 90% in Turkey (this percentage may increase if the operation is performed in a medical center equipped with the latest technologies and provides medical staff with sufficient experience to perform such operations) .
The cost of VATS lobectomy
The price of VATS lobectomy in Turkey depends on several factors. It varies according to the place where the operation is performed, the doctor who performs it, and the patient’s health condition. In general, the cost in Turkey ranges between 8-10 thousand US dollars, while in Europe and America it may reach more than 25 thousand US dollars.
It is important to speak with your physician to get an accurate estimate of the cost based on your individual health condition and the services provided. However, the costs of surgery in Turkey are considered low compared to many European and American countries, making it a popular destination for medical tourism.
In conclusion, it clearly appears that VATS lobectomy represents an important step towards recovery and improving the quality of life for patients. Hospitals and medical teams in Turkey offer modern technologies and advanced services that allow patients to benefit from the latest developments in the field of thoracic surgery. Quickly contact us for a free consultation and book your appointment with the best doctors in Turkey.
