About Thoracoscopy
Key Highlights
-
Minimally invasive with small incisions, reducing tissue trauma.Provides direct, high-definition visualization of the lungs and pleural space.Allows for both diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic intervention in one procedure.Typically results in less post-operative pain compared to open thoracotomy.Shorter hospital stay and faster overall recovery time.Lower risk of infection and complications associated with large surgical wounds./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosis of unexplained pleural effusion (fluid around the lung).
- Evaluation of suspected lung cancer, mesothelioma, or metastatic disease.
- Investigation of persistent chest pain or unexplained abnormalities on chest X-ray/CT scan.
- Biopsy of lung nodules, pleural tissue, or mediastinal lymph nodes.
- Treatment of recurrent pleural effusions or pneumothorax (collapsed lung).
- Drainage of empyema (infected pleural fluid) or lung abscess.
- Performance of pleurodesis (sealing the pleural space to prevent fluid re-accumulation).
How to prepare
- Complete pre-operative assessment including blood tests, chest X-ray, and CT scan.
- Detailed discussion with the pulmonologist about medical history, allergies, and current medications.
- Adjustment or temporary cessation of blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) as advised.
- Fasting for 6-12 hours before the procedure, depending on anesthesia type.
- Informed consent process explaining the procedure, benefits, and potential risks.
- Arranging for transportation home post-procedure as driving is not permitted.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding or hemorrhage at the incision sites or internally.
- Infection of the surgical site or within the chest cavity (empyema).
- Persistent air leak from the lung, potentially requiring a longer hospital stay.
- Injury to surrounding structures like blood vessels, nerves, or the diaphragm.
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia, such as respiratory issues or nausea.
- Development of subcutaneous emphysema (air under the skin).
- Rare complications include pneumonia, blood clots, or arrhythmias.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial monitoring in a recovery area for vital signs and pain management.
- A chest tube may remain for 1-3 days to drain fluid/air and ensure lung re-expansion.
- Pain at incision sites is common and managed with prescribed medications.
- Deep breathing exercises and incentive spirometry are encouraged to prevent lung collapse.
- Gradual increase in mobility; avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for several weeks.
- Follow-up appointment to review biopsy results and assess healing.
- Contact the doctor immediately for signs of infection, fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
-
Typical hospital stay: 2-5 days
-
Expected recovery time: 2-4 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering thoracoscopy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for thoracoscopy in India include Manipal Hospital Varthur Road, Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform thoracoscopy. MediFyr helps you compare pulmonologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for thoracoscopy compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Thoracoscopy in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated pulmonology teams and experience managing patients undergoing thoracoscopy.
A 28-year-old female software engineer from...
A 28-year-old female software engineer from Bangalore presented with persistent dry cough and exertional dyspnea. Dr. Manimaran diagnosed hypersensitivity pneumonitis from chronic exposure to mold in her air-conditioned office. Treatment involved environmental modifications and a short course of corticosteroids, with complete resolution of symptoms within three weeks.
Pulmonologists for Thoracoscopy
Explore experienced pulmonologists who regularly perform thoracoscopy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 4 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road
- 15 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road
- 21 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
SIMS Hospital Vadapalani
- 21 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Kharadi
- 46 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
KMC Hospital Mangalore
- 23 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Kharadi
- 14 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Jayanagar
- 24 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Hebbal
- 10 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road
- 14 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad
- 26 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
KMC Hospital Mangalore
- 14 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram
- 22 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Hebbal
- 23 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital EM Bypass
- 10 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Jayanagar
- 8 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Dwarka
- 15 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Mysore
- 17 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Gurgaon