Clinical experiences with 20 cases of single-direction thoracoscopic lobectomy and systematic lymph node dissection for peripheral NSCLC

ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety, efficacy, feasibility of single-direction thoracoscopic lobectomy for peripheral lung cancer.MethodsFrom December 2009 to March 2011, 20 patients with peripheral lung cancer were treated with single-direction thoracoscopic lobectomy and systemic lymph nodes dissection.ResultsSurgeries were successfully performed. No significant complications occurred perioperatively. The average operation time was 193 min, the average blood loss was 234 ml, the average duration of drainage was 6 d, the postoperative hospital stay was 12 d, and the average number of lymph nodes dissected was 16.ConclusionSingle-direction thoracoscopic lobectomy is feasible and safe in the treatment of peripheral lung cancer and can simplify the surgical procedures.