Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has been widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of chest diseases. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility and clinical value of lobectomy with single utility port complete VATS. METHODS: From September 2009 to December 2009, 21 cases underwent lobectomy with single utility port complete VATS. Of 21 patients, right upper lobectomy was 12 cases, left lower lobectomy 5 cases, right lower lobectomy 2 cases, left upper lobectomy 1 case, right middle lobectomy 1 case. RESULTS: The operation process were smooth in all patients and without conversion to thoracotomy. The mean operative time was (132.7 +/- 16.2) min and the mean intraoperative blood loss was (110.5 +/- 24.6) mL. The average chest tube drainage time was (3.1 +/- 1.3) d, and the mean hospitalization day was (5.2 +/- 3.2) d. All patients recovered smoothly and without severe complications. There were no post-operative deaths. CONCLUSION: Lobectomy with single utility port VATS is technically feasible and has the advantages of minimal invasive and rapid recovery.