Clinical applications of minimally invasive uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the field of minimally invasive thoracic surgery has experienced significant advancements driven by improvements in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) techniques and surgical instruments. These advances have given rise to uniportal VATS as a new area of exploration in minimally invasive thoracic surgery. This technique presents several potential advantages, including reduced access trauma, less postoperative pain, improved cosmesis, fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, and faster rehabilitation, ultimately leading to an improvement in patient quality of life. PURPOSE: This article reviews the evolutionary history of minimally invasive thoracic surgery, highlights novel techniques, explores possible applications and obtained results, and discusses future prospects of uniportal VATS. CONCLUSION: Experienced thoracic surgeons have demonstrated the capacity to perform uniportal VATS with a high level of safety and efficacy. Further studies are necessary to assess its long-term efficacy, address limitations, and enhance clinical decision-making for optimal treatment of thoracic conditions.