Thoracoscopic lymphadenectomy via uniportal approach
Date
2021-11-30
Authors
Al-Qtishat, Bayan Fathi
Idais, Shahd Tahseen
Abu Akar, Firas
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Abstract
Performing a radical lymphadenectomy is an obligation for a complete resection in non-small
cell lung cancer. Mediastinal lymphadenectomy is indicated whenever a diagnosis of lymphadenopathy is
not possible via imaging techniques. With the uprising use of uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopy and
the accumulating literature of its safety and efficacy compared to multiportal approach, thoracoscopic
lymphadenectomy via uniportal approach is a common terminology to come across. The use of uniportal
video-assisted thoracoscopy lymphadenectomy offers a lower complication rate, postoperative paresthesia,
and pain when compared to the multiportal approach. With a reported higher tolerability, efficiency,
safety, and better cosmetic outcome; it is more appealing to the patients. Though it is becoming easier to
perform with experience, it is still a complicated procedure with many challenges. These challenges can be
related to implementing the technique itself, or due to its linkage to the development of the instruments
industry and the overall high cost of the procedure. In this review, we walk you through the history of the
approach from the idea to todays’ form of video-assisted thoracoscopy, mediastinal lymphadenectomy via
uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopy indications, contraindications, and outcomes; an extensive explanation
of the lymph node dissection technique with specific considerations for each lymph node station. The
article is supplemented with an anatomical overview of the mediastinal lymph nodes; supported by videos
of the technique for a better visual review and learning experience, ending with extra challenges faced in
implementing the technique in developing countries.
Description
Keywords
Lymphadenectomy , lymph node dissection , uniportal VATS , uniportal VATS technique , single port
Citation
Cite this article as: Al-Qtishat BF, Idais ST, Abu Akar F. Thoracoscopic lymphadenectomy via uniportal approach. AME Surg J 2021.