VATS: Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery
Assessment, procedures and recovery in camera-assisted chest surgery.
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 VATS?
VATS stands for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. A camera and surgical instruments are introduced into the chest through small incisions. The surgeon directly operates the instruments by hand while watching a monitor. VATS is a way to access the surgical site; it does not in itself determine the amount of tissue removed.
When may it be considered?
In suitable patients, VATS can be used for lung biopsy, lung resections such as lobectomy or segmentectomy, pneumothorax procedures and certain pleural, thymic or mediastinal procedures. In cancer surgery, tumor removal with adequate margins and appropriate lymph node assessment are essential. It is not suitable for every condition or stage.
Assessment before surgery
CT and other necessary imaging, breathing capacity, coexisting illnesses and fitness for anesthesia are assessed together. Previous surgery and adhesions within the chest can affect the plan. Share medications with the team; blood thinner adjustments and fasting instructions must be individualized.
How is it performed?
VATS is usually performed under general anesthesia. The camera and instruments may enter through one or more incisions; their number and position depend on the procedure. A chest drain may be placed at the end of the operation to remove air and fluid. Removal timing depends on the lung’s condition.
Potential benefits and limitations
In suitable patients, VATS may offer less pain and faster recovery compared with open surgery. However, a small incision does not mean a minor or risk-free operation. The amount of lung removed and general health also affect recovery.
Risks and conversion to open surgery
Bleeding, infection, prolonged air leakage, abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots, breathing problems and pain or numbness around the incision may occur. Bleeding, adhesions or another obstacle to safe progress may require conversion to thoracotomy, or open chest surgery. This decision is made to ensure safety and appropriate treatment.
Recovery and follow-up appointments
Pain control, breathing exercises and early movement to the extent recommended by the team are important. Pathology guides additional treatment when needed. There is no fixed time to return to work, driving or sport. Call 112 in Türkiye for sudden severe breathlessness or severe chest pain.
Frequently asked questions
Are VATS and lobectomy the same thing?
No. Lobectomy removes a lobe of the lung; VATS is one surgical approach through which it may be performed.
Is a single incision more suitable for every patient?
No. The number of entry sites depends on the condition, anatomy and requirements for safe surgery.
How does it differ from robotic surgery?
In VATS, the surgeon directly handles the instruments. In robotic surgery, instruments are controlled by the surgeon’s movements at a console.
Learn more about robotic surgery →
Further reading
Patient information sources · Sources checked: 22 October 2026. Checking sources does not mean the text has been medically approved by the physician.