The procedure reduces pain in surgery, enables quicker recovery and demonstrates better success in treatment
New Delhi (THP)
With lung cancer ranking as the second most prevalent among the five major cancers affecting India, its proper treatment holds promise of extending patients’ lives.
According to the National Cancer Registry Programme, there were 679,421 male and 712,758 female cases in 2020, and projections indicate a significant increase by 2025 to 763,575 for males and 806,218 for females.
Traditionally, early-stage lung cancer surgeries involved painful procedures such as cutting open the ribs. However, to alleviate post-operative pain, surgeons are increasingly turning to Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) or thoracoscopy, which utilises smaller incisions.
VATS proves to be less painful compared to traditional surgical methods, resulting in shorter hospital stays. In contrast to conventional surgery, which may involve incisions up to 15-20 cm, VATS necessitates only a 3-cm incision, avoiding rib spreading and leading to reduced pain and a discharge from the hospital within three or four days. The procedure is also applicable to esophageal cancer, enhancing its versatility in treating various conditions. There is also a positive impact on success rate with the adoption of VATS, showcasing the effectiveness of this minimally invasive approach.
The cost of VATS varies based on the specific surgery and the hospital. Typically, VATS costs range from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 1 lakh in India. This cost disparity is influenced by factors such as the complexity of the procedure and the facilities provided by the hospital.
Going forward, VATS is set to emerge as a transformative solution for lung cancer treatment, offering not only reduced pain and quicker recovery but also demonstrating better success in treatment.
As the prevalence of cancer continues to rise, the adoption of advanced surgical techniques becomes increasingly crucial in improving patient outcomes and overall healthcare efficacy.
(Source: The Health Presso)