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Latvian Surgeons Perform Complex Minimally invasive Lung Cancer Operation
Overview
Surgeons at the Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital (Eastern Hospital) in Latvia successfully performed a complex, minimally invasive surgery on a 67-year-old patient with central squamous cell carcinoma of the left lung. The operation, a bronchoplastic and angioplasty lobectomy, involved removing the tumor which had extended into both the left main bronchus and the pulmonary artery.
According to a hospital press release, the surgery represents a significant advancement in thoracic surgery techniques.
The Procedure
The patient was diagnosed with central squamous cell carcinoma, a type of non-small cell lung cancer, originating in the upper lobe of the left lung. The tumor’s growth into the left main bronchus and pulmonary artery made the surgery especially challenging.
The surgeons utilized a minimally invasive approach, employing bronchoplastic and angioplasty techniques during the lobectomy. This involved reconstructing parts of the bronchus and pulmonary artery to ensure proper lung function after tumor removal.
the postoperative period was uncomplicated, and the patient was discharged home on the eighth day post-surgery. This rapid recovery is attributed to the minimally invasive surgical technique.
Advancements in Thoracic Surgery at Eastern Hospital
Eastern Hospital has been at the forefront of thoracic surgery innovation in Latvia.
Ten years ago, in 2014, the hospital performed it’s first uniportal VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery) lobectomy – a procedure conducted through a single surgical incision.
Prior to the introduction of this uniportal approach, VATS lobectomies typically required two to three incisions, similar to laparoscopic surgery. This evolution towards single-incision surgery represents a significant reduction in invasiveness and potential for improved patient outcomes.
Further developments are planned, with the hospital’s thoracic center anticipating continued advancements by the end of 2025.
The hospital’s surgical team is committed to adopting and refining the latest surgical techniques.
Understanding Lung Cancer and Treatment Options
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common types of non-small cell lung cancer.
Early detection and advancements in surgical techniques, like those employed at Eastern Hospital, are crucial for improving survival rates.
Minimally invasive surgical approaches, such as VATS lobectomy, offer several advantages over customary open surgery, including:
- Smaller incisions
- Reduced pain
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery times
