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.
Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
When dealing with conditions that affect the lungs, chest, or esophagus, advanced surgical techniques like Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery (MITS) have revolutionized patient care. This cutting-edge approach reduces pain, shortens recovery time, and improves outcomes compared to traditional open surgery.
Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery (MITS) has revolutionized the way we treat conditions in the chest area, offering patients an advanced, less painful alternative to traditional open surgeries. This cutting-edge approach is ideal for addressing lung, esophageal, and other thoracic disorders, ensuring faster recovery, fewer complications, and improved overall outcomes.
What is Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery?
Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery involves the use of small incisions, specialized instruments, and video-assisted technology to perform procedures within the chest. This method avoids the need for large cuts and rib spreading, making it a less traumatic option for treating thoracic conditions.
Conditions Treated with Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
This advanced surgical technique is used to address various chest-related health issues, including:
- Lung cancer and benign lung nodules
- Esophageal cancer
- Pleural effusions and empyema
- Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
- Chest wall tumors
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
Patients undergoing MITS enjoy several advantages over traditional open surgery, such as:
- Smaller incisions leading to minimal scarring
- Reduced post-operative pain
- Shorter hospital stays, often allowing patients to return home sooner
- Faster recovery times with a quicker return to daily activities
- Lower risk of complications, including infections
Techniques Used in Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
- Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): A thin, flexible camera and small instruments are inserted through small incisions to perform the surgery.
- Robotic-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (RATS): Robotic technology enhances precision, offering better visualization and control during complex procedures.
Conditions Treated with Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
MITS is versatile and can treat a wide range of thoracic issues, including but not limited to:
Lung Disorders
- Lung Cancer: Early-stage tumors are removed with precision while preserving healthy lung tissue.
- Benign Lung Nodules: Suspicious growths can be biopsied or removed without extensive surgery.
- Emphysema: Certain MITS techniques, like lung volume reduction surgery, can improve breathing for patients with severe emphysema.
Esophageal Issues
- Esophageal Cancer: Minimally invasive esophagectomy offers a safer alternative to open surgery.
- Achalasia: A condition affecting the esophagus’s ability to move food to the stomach, often treated with Heller myotomy.
Chest Wall and Pleural Disorders
- Pleural Effusion: Fluid buildup around the lungs is drained using minimally invasive techniques.
- Pneumothorax: Collapsed lungs can be repaired with less trauma to surrounding tissues.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of nerves or blood vessels in the chest is relieved using MITS approaches.
Key Benefits of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
Patients often choose MITS for its numerous advantages over traditional surgery:
1. Smaller Incisions
The tiny incisions used in MITS lead to minimal scarring, which is both cosmetically and medically beneficial.
2. Reduced Pain
Because there’s less trauma to muscles and ribs, patients experience significantly less pain post-surgery.
3. Shorter Hospital Stays
Many MITS patients can leave the hospital within 1-3 days, compared to the week-long stays common with open surgery.
4. Faster Recovery
Patients often resume normal activities in a matter of weeks, rather than months.
5. Lower Risk of Complications
Minimally invasive techniques reduce the likelihood of infections, blood loss, and other surgical complications.
Types of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
Two primary techniques are used for minimally invasive thoracic procedures:
1. Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)
VATS uses a small camera called a thoracoscope, which is inserted through a tiny incision. This camera provides a clear view of the chest cavity, allowing surgeons to perform precise operations.
Common VATS Procedures:
- Lobectomy for lung cancer
- Removal of pleural tumors
- Biopsy of lung or lymph nodes
2. Robotic-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (RATS)
RATS uses robotic systems that enhance the surgeon’s ability to perform complex movements with greater accuracy. Robotic tools are controlled remotely and provide 3D visualization for unparalleled precision.
Common RATS Procedures:
- Mediastinal tumor removal
- Esophageal surgery
- Repair of hiatal hernias
Preparing for Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
If you’ve been scheduled for MITS, here’s how you can prepare:
- Pre-Surgery Tests: These may include imaging scans, blood tests, and pulmonary function tests.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Quit smoking and improve your diet to promote better healing.
- Follow Medical Advice: Discuss all medications, and follow pre-operative instructions given by your surgeon.
Conclusion
Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery is transforming the way we treat chest conditions, offering patients faster recovery, fewer complications, and a better quality of life. If you’re exploring treatment options, consider consulting with a thoracic surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive procedures to discuss how this advanced approach can benefit you.