Thoracic surgery is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the organs and structures in the chest cavity. Surgeons specialized in this field perform surgical procedures on organs such as the lungs, heart, esophagus, chest wall and diaphragm. Thoracic surgery plays a critical role in the treatment of respiratory system diseases and provides an important service to improve patients' quality of life.

Scope of Thoracic Surgery

Thoracic surgery addresses a variety of health problems. Conditions such as lung cancer, lung infections, pneumothorax (air accumulation in the lungs), pleural effusion (chest membrane fluid accumulation), esophageal cancer, heart valve diseases and chest wall traumas are within the scope of thoracic surgery. Thoracic surgeons diagnose, treat and monitor these diseases.

Diagnosis and Treatment Methods

Thoracic surgeons use imaging techniques to diagnose diseases. These techniques include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasonography, and x-ray. These imaging methods are used to evaluate the location, size, and extent of spread of diseases.

Treatment methods vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. Thoracic surgeons customize treatment plans to suit patients. These plans may often include medication, surgery, or a combination. Surgical procedures have become less invasive thanks to the development of modern technology and surgical techniques, which has accelerated the healing process of patients.

Important Developments and Advances

Advances are constantly being made in the field of thoracic surgery. Minimally invasive surgical techniques enable patients to feel less pain, recover faster and experience fewer complications. Technological innovations such as robotic surgery systems help surgeons perform operations with more precision and increase patient safety.