Patient Education Guide to Lung Surgery | Page 9

� Robotic VATS : This VATS procedure utilizes a computer-controlled device that moves , positions , and manipulates the surgical tools based on the surgeon ’ s movements . The computer console also allows the surgeon to see the patient ’ s chest with greater magnification than is possible with normal vision .
� Open Thoracotomy : An incision is made on one side of the chest and the ribs are spread to allow the surgeon to access the part of the lung being removed . An open thoracotomy may or may not also include cutting through muscle .
Possible Incision Site for Thoracotomy
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