Robotic Thoracic Surgery (RATS)
Thoracic surgery using a robotic system controlled by the surgeon at a console.
Draft awaiting medical review · General information; not a substitute for an individual consultation and assessment.
Content updated: 22 October 2026 · Last physician review: not yet completed.
What is robotic thoracic surgery?
Robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery is also known as RATS. The surgeon uses a console to control a camera and instruments placed inside the chest through small incisions. The robot does not make its own decisions or operate independently; surgical decisions and control remain with the physician.
How does the system work?
Magnified three-dimensional vision and articulated instruments can help controlled movement in confined spaces. Alongside the surgeon at the console, a surgical team works at the patient’s side with the anesthesia team. These technical features do not guarantee better outcomes for every patient.
Which operations can use it?
It may be considered for lobectomy, segmentectomy and certain thymus or mediastinal operations in selected patients. In lung cancer, adequate tissue removal, surgical margins and lymph node assessment matter regardless of the approach. Using a robot does not in itself change the amount of tissue to be removed or the need for additional treatment.
Patient selection and preparation
The location and extent of disease, its relationship to blood vessels, breathing capacity, heart health and previous treatments are considered. Necessary imaging and anesthesia assessments are performed. Availability of the system and a trained team is also part of planning. VATS or open surgery may be more suitable for some patients.
On the day of surgery and afterwards
The operation is usually performed under general anesthesia with the patient lying on their side. Camera and instrument entry sites depend on the procedure. A chest drain may be placed to remove air and fluid. Pain control, breathing exercises and mobilization are monitored in hospital. There is no fixed number of days until discharge for everyone.
Risks and changing the approach
Bleeding, prolonged air leakage, infection, abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots and breathing problems may occur. Nearby structures may be injured and anesthesia-related complications are possible. Technical problems or surgical safety needs may require conversion to VATS or open surgery. These possibilities are discussed before the operation.
Recovery and follow-up
Even with small incisions, a major chest operation may have been performed. Activity, wound care and medications at home follow the discharge plan. Pathology and follow-up assessments determine the next steps. Contact the team for high fever or significant wound changes; call 112 in Türkiye for sudden severe breathing difficulty.
Frequently asked questions
Will the robot operate on me on its own?
No. The surgeon controls every instrument movement, with a team at the patient’s side.
Is robotic surgery necessarily better than VATS?
No. Suitability depends on the condition, individual and team’s experience. Technical differences do not mean superior outcomes in every patient.
Does robotic surgery eliminate the need for other treatment?
Additional treatment may still be necessary. Cancer type, stage and pathology determine that need.
Further reading
Patient information sources · Sources checked: 22 October 2026. Checking sources does not mean the text has been medically approved by the physician.