The Comparison of Navigational Bronchoscopic and CT-Guided Preoperative Markings in Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery

Applying markings prior to uniport VATS wedge resections helps localize small, potentially early-stage lung tumors. After marking, the patients are positioned laterally and receive general anesthesia with single-lung ventilation. The investigators perform VATS wedge resection using uniportal techniques. The utility incision is made in the 5th intercostal space between the anterior and mid-axillary lines. Insufflation is not typically utilized. The lesion is localized, elevated, and confirmed by palpation. The investigators then staple around the lesion using the Endo GIA™ ultra universal stapler with an Articulating Reload featuring Tri-Staple™ Technology in 45 or 60 mm lengths, choosing purple or black loads based on parenchyma thickness. Finally, the investigators close the wound and place one chest drain in the thoracic cavity, set to active suction of 5-10 cm of water.