Thoracic Surgery

Thoracic Surgery

Thoracic surgery is the branch of science that deals with the surgery of the tissues and organs outside the heart within the chest cavity. The heart and vessels located within the rib cage fall under the field of "Cardiovascular Surgery."

Conditions Treated by Thoracic Surgery

Lung Cancer

Benign and malignant tumors of the lung can occur. Unfortunately, malignant tumors, often linked to smoking, are more common. Surgical treatment is especially effective in the early stages of lung cancer.

Early detection of a tumor and its complete removal can lead to a full recovery, with a cure rate of approximately 90% for 1 cm tumors.

Recommendations for Early Diagnosis:

• Smokers over the age of 35 should have an annual chest X-ray.
• After the age of 40, an annual chest CT scan is recommended.

Pleuromenal Cancer

This rare but increasingly common type of cancer in our country originates from membranes surrounding the lungs, heart, and abdominal organs (pleura, pericardium, and peritoneum). It is often linked to exposure to carcinogenic minerals.

Respiratory Tube Tumors

Tumors, benign or malignant, may develop in or around the trachea, potentially compressing it and causing narrowing.

Treatment Methods:

• Partial or complete removal of the tumor via bronchoscopy.
• Resection of the tumor and reconnection of the trachea.
• Stent placement in some cases.

Pulmonary Emphysema

A condition most commonly caused by long-term smoking, known medically as “Emphysema,” which leads to chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and shortness of breath.

Treatment:

• Drug therapy is essential in the early stages.
• In advanced cases, "Lung Volume Reduction Surgery" may be performed, though not all patients are eligible.

Fluid Accumulation in the Chest Cavity

Fluid may accumulate in the chest cavity due to various lung or systemic diseases.

Causes:

• Tuberculosis
• Lung and pleural cancer
• Pneumonia

Treatment: The fluid is typically drained through a thin tube via surgical intervention.

Pleurone Inflammation

Inflammation of the pleural space and bronchi may occur post-surgery or as a result of an infection.

Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating of the hands, feet, armpits, and face affects approximately 1% of the population, particularly during adolescence.

Treatment: Video-Thoracic Thoracic Sympathetic blockades, performed as a bilateral procedure in one session, allow patients to return home the same day and resume work after 2 days of rest.

Rib Deformities

Deformities of the rib cage, such as ribs collapsing or protruding, may occur due to congenital reasons.

Treatment: Surgical correction is possible.

Chest Traumas

Thoracic surgery addresses fractures, bleeding, or organ injuries resulting from traffic accidents or falls.

Diaphragmatic Hernia

Caused by tears in the diaphragm due to trauma, congenital defects, or other reasons, allowing abdominal organs to enter the chest cavity.

Treatment: Surgery is required.

Congenital Anomalies of the Lung

Congenital lung anomalies result from developmental issues in the womb.

Features:

• Usually not life-threatening.
• May cause discomfort in infancy or adulthood.

Treatment: Surgery.

Lung Hydatid Cyst

A common condition in our country caused by parasite eggs found in unvaccinated animals.

Treatment: Surgical intervention is required.

Closed Lung Surgeries

In closed lung surgeries, procedures are performed with 1-3 incisions (0.5-1 cm) using an endoscopic camera and monitor.

Advantages:

• Shorter hospital stay
• Less pain
• Lower risk of complications
• More cosmetically satisfactory results

Many thoracic surgery operations can be performed using this minimally invasive method at our hospital.