What does VATS mean in NETWORKING

Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) is an advanced minimally-invasive procedure for treating diseases and disorders of the chest. It is performed with small incisions and cameras that allow surgeons to see inside the chest cavity in real time. The advantages of VATS over traditional open surgery include less pain, bleeding, and faster recovery times.

VATS can be used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions affecting the chest such as lung cancer, emphysema, pleural tumors, thoracic aortic aneurysms, and more.

Traditional open surgery involves making a large incision into the chest cavity in order to access the affected area. In contrast with VATS, small incisions are made to insert specialized instruments that enable surgeons to view inside the chest in real time on video screens. This minimizes scarring and reduces pain after surgery.

As with any medical procedure there are risks involved such as bleeding or infection; however, these risks are generally less than those associated with traditional open surgery. Your surgeon will discuss any potential risks of your particular treatment plan before you make any decisions about undergoing the procedure.

Certain medical conditions or medications may increase the risk of complications if you undergo VATS so it is important to discuss these contraindications with your doctor before scheduling this type of surgery. People who suffer from severe respiratory problems or have had recent trauma may not be suited for this type of procedure as well.

Yes, general anesthesia will usually be used during a VATS procedure to ensure patient comfort and safety throughout the duration of the operation. Your doctor will provide you with further information about the specific types of anesthesia used prior to your scheduled appointment date.

Recovery times vary depending on individual circumstances but typically last between one and two weeks after surgery before most people can resume their normal daily activities. Swelling at or near incisions sites may linger for several weeks or longer but should gradually decrease over time. Your surgeon can give you an estimated timeline for what to expect during your recovery period based on your unique treatment plan.

The results of your treatment plan are usually long lasting; however it is important to follow up regularly with your doctor in order to ensure ongoing health benefits from having gone through this type of surgery. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to harmful environmental factors can help maintain long term results from undergoing this type of treatment plan.