Thoracic Surgery

At a glance

Sub-specialties

lung and airway surgery, thoracic surgical oncology, esophageal surgery, mediastinal and thymic surgery, pleural disease surgery, chest wall and diaphragm surgery

Common procedures

lobectomy and segmentectomy for lung tumours, wedge resection, video-assisted and robotic thoracic surgery, pleural drainage and decortication, thymectomy, esophageal and tracheal surgery

Common reasons to travel

experienced surgical teams, minimally invasive and robotic technology, one coordinated cancer plan, shorter waiting times

Typical hospital stay

about 2 to 5 days for keyhole lung surgery, longer for major open or esophageal operations

Anaesthesia

general anaesthesia, usually with single-lung ventilation so the surgeon can work in a still chest

Typical first step

a remote review of your imaging and reports, followed by an in person assessment and any tests needed before surgery