What is the difference between thoracotomy and VATS?
Surgery, whether performed using VATS or thoracotomy is done with you completely asleep / unconscious. Lobectomy performed via either technique takes a similar amount of time, in the operating room, to perform. Lobectomies performed using VATS are associated with a shorter hospital stay, less pain, fewer complications, earlier return to full activity, and, if needed, better tolerance of postoperative chemotherapy.
