Thoracoscopic versus open lobectomy debate: the pro argument

Abstract

Introduction: Controversy persists about the role of VATS lobectomy for patients with lung cancer. This is particularly true in Europe, where VATS (video assisted thoracic surgery) lobectomy is performed for lung cancer less often than in the USA or Japan. This article reviews existing data comparing the results of VATS vs. open lobectomy for the treatment of lung cancer in order to provide a scientific basis for a rational assessment of this issue