Skip Ribbon Commands
Skip to main content
Menu

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy - What it is

What is it

The thymus is a fatty organ situated behind the sternum. Its primary function in childhood is the immune modulation of lymphocytes. It may be enlarged and associated with conditions like myasthenia gravis (MG). MG is an auto immune condition where the patients become fatigued easily and in severe cases may result in respiratory distress. Although medications can treat the condition effectively, potential cure can be offered by a total thymectomy.

Conventionally, a total thymectomy is performed by splitting the sternum. With Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS), this can be done with small incisions from the right side of the chest. With a shorter hospital stay, less pain and cosmetically more superior, VATS thymectomy may soon become the standard of care for MG patients.

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy - Symptoms

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy - How to prevent?

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy - Causes and Risk Factors

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy - Diagnosis

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy - Treatments

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy - Preparing for surgery

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy - Post-surgery care

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Thymectomy - Other Information

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

TOP
Discover articles,videos, and guides afrom Singhealth's resources across the web. These information are collated, making healthy living much easier for everyone.