Dr. Shilpa Gandhi | Leading Consultant Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgeon In Nagpur
Meet Our Doctor
Dr. Shilpa Gandhi
MBBS, DNB General Surgery DNB Thoracic Surgery
Dr. Shilpa Gandhi is a trusted and experienced healthcare professional known for her compassionate care and expertise. Committed to delivering personalized treatments and improving patient well-being.
How To Choose A Thoracic Surgeon
Choosing the right thoracic surgeon is a critical decision that can significantly impact your health and recovery, especially when dealing with conditions affecting the chest, lungs, or esophagus. Whether you require surgery for lung cancer, chest wall abnormalities, or other respiratory issues, selecting an experienced and skilled thoracic surgeon is essential for the best possible outcome.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through important factors to consider when choosing a thoracic surgeon to ensure you make an informed, confident decision about your healthcare.
What Does a Thoracic Surgeon Do?
A thoracic surgeon specializes in surgeries within the chest cavity, focusing on:
- Lung Conditions: Such as lung cancer, emphysema, and infections.
- Esophageal Issues: Including GERD, esophageal cancer, and swallowing disorders.
- Heart-Related Conditions: Thoracic surgeons may work alongside cardiovascular specialists to handle procedures like coronary bypass or heart valve repair.
- Chest Wall and Diaphragm Problems: Treating deformities, tumors, and trauma.
Common Procedures Performed by Thoracic Surgeons
- Lobectomy and Wedge Resection for lung cancer
- Esophagectomy for esophageal cancer
- Minimally Invasive Surgeries: Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted procedures for less recovery time and smaller scars
- Thoracotomy for extensive chest surgeries
What Is a Thoracic Surgeon?
Thoracic surgeons perform surgeries to treat a variety of conditions affecting the chest cavity. These include:
- Lung cancer and tumors
- Esophageal cancer and swallowing disorders
- Chest trauma and deformities
- Pleural diseases like mesothelioma or pleural effusion
- Infections such as empyema or severe lung infections
Procedures Performed by Thoracic Surgeons
Thoracic surgeons utilize advanced surgical techniques to address complex conditions, including:
- Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS): A minimally invasive procedure for faster recovery.
- Robotic Thoracic Surgery: Precise, less invasive surgeries with the help of robotics.
- Lung Resection (Lobectomy): Removal of a lung lobe affected by cancer or disease.
- Esophagectomy: Surgery for esophageal cancer.
- Thoracotomy: Open surgery for major chest issues.
Why Choose a Thoracic Surgeon?
Thoracic surgeons are experts in handling complex surgeries with precision and care. They use state-of-the-art technology and a multidisciplinary approach to ensure the best outcomes. Whether you’re dealing with a life-threatening condition like lung cancer or need treatment for benign chest issues, a thoracic surgeon can offer expert guidance and intervention.
When Should You See a Thoracic Surgeon?
Consult a thoracic surgeon if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent chest pain or discomfort
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chronic cough or coughing up blood
- Trouble swallowing or unexplained weight loss
Common Thoracic Surgical Procedures
Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS): A technique that uses small incisions and a camera to treat lung cancer, infections, and other conditions, resulting in less pain and faster recovery.
- Robotic Thoracic Surgery: Advanced technology that allows for greater precision in surgeries, especially for lung and esophageal cancers.
- Thoracotomy: An open surgery used for complex chest conditions, such as extensive tumors or trauma.
- Lobectomy or Pneumonectomy: Removal of a lung lobe or the entire lung, commonly performed for lung cancer.
- Esophagectomy: Surgical removal of part or all of the esophagus, typically for esophageal cancer.
- Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair: Correcting hernias that affect breathing or chest function.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
Modern thoracic surgery techniques, such as VATS and robotic-assisted surgery, have revolutionized patient care. Benefits include:
- Reduced Pain and Scarring: Smaller incisions lead to less post-operative discomfort.
- Shorter Recovery Time: Patients can return to daily activities more quickly.
- Lower Risk of Complications: Minimally invasive techniques reduce the chance of infection and other risks.
Conditions That Require a Thoracic Surgeon
A thoracic surgeon can address a variety of critical conditions, including:
- Lung Cancer
- Esophageal Cancer
- Collapsed Lung (Pneumothorax)
- Severe Chest Trauma
- Pleural Effusion or Fluid Around the Lungs
- Chest Wall Tumors