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  • Gleneagles Singapore

Cardiothoracic Surgery

  • Understanding the Procedure

    Gleneagles Singapore, Bladeless Cataract Surgery

    Cardiothoracic surgery is the surgical treatment of diseases affecting organs inside the chest. This generally refers to the treatment of heart and lung diseases. Cardiothoracic surgeons are trained to perform surgery on the heart, lungs, chest wall and diaphragm. Treatments for heart diseases, such as coronary artery bypasses and heart transplants, can be performed by surgeons trained in the cardiothoracic specialty.

    The traditional approach for a surgeon to gain access to the chest is to perform a 10 – 15cm incision (cut) on the chest. This is still the standard in certain thoracic conditions, including lung cancer surgery, but it is invasive, requiring a large incision and rib spreading. It is the most common approach, but it causes more chest trauma, pain and a slower return to basic activities.

    Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is a modern alternative approach which allows trained thoracic surgeons to achieve the same outcomes as a thoracotomy.

    Through 1 – 3 incisions (measuring 5 – 12mm each), the surgeon can view the whole chest cavity with a small video camera. The images are projected from a high-resolution computer monitor.

    It is routinely used at Gleneagles Hospital to carry out diagnostic procedures such as lung, pleura, mediastinal lymph nodes and tumour biopsy. With this expertise, the improved technique further allows surgeons to safely treat many thoracic conditions as follows:

    • Pleurodesis

      • Pneumothorax (air in chest cavity)
      • Pleural effusion (fluid in chest cavity)
      • Chylothorax (lymphatic fluid in chest cavity)
    • Decortication of Empyema

    • Lung Volume Surgery for Severe Emphysematous Lungs

    • Resection of Mediastinal Tumours

      • Thymoma
      • Neurogenic tumour
      • Bronchogenic cyst
      • Leiomyoma
    • Lung Cancer Surgery

      • Wedge resection (usually for secondary cancer spread from other organs)
      • Segmentectomy
      • Lobectomy
    • Oesophagectomy for Oesophageal Cancer

    • Sympathectomy for Sweaty Palms and/or Arm Pits

    • Drainage of Hemothorax (blood in chest cavity)

     

    *This is not a complete list of all the diagnostic procedures and treatments we provide. The information is designed for educational reference only and should not be seen as medical advice.

    Please consult one of our qualified healthcare specialists for an accurate diagnosis before starting on any treatment.

  • With small cuts and non-rib spreading techniques, VATS offers many benefits, including less pain after operation, earlier mobilisation, better immune response and earlier return to normal activities.

    As technology continues to evolve and surgeons learn minimally invasive techniques, Gleneagles Hospital has also applied robotic aid for lobectomy in lung cancer patients.

    Robotic-assisted surgery is carried out by the main surgeon remotely controlling the robotic instruments via a console a few feet away from the patient. A bedside surgeon, by watching the video monitor, will help the main surgeon in handling the robotic instruments and attending to any situations that may arise.

    With modern video technology, the surgeon is now able to obtain true 3D, high-resolution and magnified views of the surgical field. Robotic-assisted surgery offers better control of the instruments in the chest while eliminating the tremour of human hands. As a result, the surgeons can now perform surgery with improved precision in a safer environment.

    Gleneagles Hospital's established team of well-versed and specialised surgeons and doctors, supported by a strong multi-disciplinary team of medical specialists, nurses and therapists, will guide patients with professionalism, sensitivity and care throughout the entire process.

  • Quality and customised healthcare has been our legacy for more than 50 years. Our skilled team of specialists and staff at Gleneagles Hospital is committed to your goal of getting the most appropriate treatment for your needs.

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