A thoracotomy is a procedure that lets a surgeon see into the thoracic cavity to diagnose an illness or to treat one. The surgeon can see your lungs, heart, aorta, esophagus and possibly your spine.

A thoracotomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting open the chest wall to gain access into the pleural cavity. [1] It is mostly performed by specialist cardiothoracic surgeons, although emergency …

Nov 20, 2024 · What Is a Thoracotomy? A thoracotomy is a surgical procedure in which a cut is made between the ribs to see and reach the lungs or other organs in the chest or thorax.

Nov 3, 2023 · A thoracotomy is when a surgeon goes between your ribs to get to your heart, lungs, or esophagus to diagnose or treat an illness.

2 days ago · Everything you need to know about thoracotomy: indications, surgical procedure types, and essential pain and recovery management.

Thoracotomy is the process of making of an incision (cut) into the chest wall. A physician gains access to the chest cavity (called the thorax) by cutting through the chest wall. Reasons for the entry are varied.

Nov 10, 2020 · A thoracotomy is the surgical opening of the chest cavity. Surgeons use it to access the throat, lungs, heart, aorta and diaphragm to perform different types of thoracic surgical treatments.

Jul 20, 2023 · A thoracotomy is an incision in the chest and is normally carried out so the doctor can operate on the heart, lungs, or other structures in the chest. This is a way to treat lung cancer.

For the typical lung procedure, the thoracotomy is made in the fourth or fifth intercostal space, which allows entry into the pleural space directly over the pulmonary hilum.

Thoracotomy - Etiology, pathophysiology, symptoms, signs, diagnosis & prognosis from the Merck Manuals - Medical Professional Version.