Why it's done

Surgeons use the video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery technique to perform a variety of procedures, such as:

• Biopsy to diagnose lung cancer, mesothelioma and other chest cancers
• Lung surgery, such as surgery to treat lung cancer and lung volume reduction surgery
• Procedures to remove excess fluid or air from the area around the lungs
• Surgery to relieve excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Surgery to treat certain types of esophageal disorders
• Surgery to remove part or all of the esophagus (esophagectomy)
• Hiatal hernia repair
• Thymus gland removal surgery (thymectomy)
• Certain procedures involving the heart, ribs, spine and diaphragm