General Thoracic & Vasular Surgery
Vascular and thoracic surgery is the curative and palliative (relief) treatment of diseases, conditions or injuries contained within the thoracic cavity. The thoracic cavity is the region of the body that is formed by the sternum, vertebrae and ribs, and includes the lungs, mediastinum, esophagus, chest wall, diaphragm, and the complex web of blood vessels that run through the area.
Generally, diseases that require vascular or thoracic surgical care include diseases or conditions such as:
- early and locally advanced cancers of the lungs, trachea, mesothelium, chest wall, esophagus, and others;
- vascular diseases of the thorax including aortic aneurysm, acute pulmonary embolism, and abdominal aortic aneurysm;
- plaque buildup on arteries that may require surgical removal (called carotid endarterectomy)
Today, a number of thoracic procedures utilize robotic or minimally invasive techniques. They are performed through small incisions as opposed to spreading the ribs, which reduce the trauma to the tissue and surrounding area for patients, speeding recovery and minimizing discomfort.
