What is a lateral thoracotomy?
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4 min read
A lateral thoracotomy is a major surgical procedure involving a large incision on the side of the chest to access the thoracic cavity. A significant number of thoracic procedures, such as those for lung cancer, require this invasive approach. This surgery allows direct access to the lungs, heart, esophagus, and other thoracic organs when less invasive techniques are not sufficient.