How to optimize your set-up for a VATS right upper lobectomy

Abstract

A 77-year-old woman with multiple ground-glass opacities, the largest of which measured 21 mm, has a biopsy-proven primary lung adenocarcinoma in her right upper lobe. We performed a 3-port right-sided VATS using the Copenhagen approach. There was no pleural effusion or evidence of pleural metastatic spread. A tumor was identified in the upper lobe. The surrounding lung tissue appeared normal. We performed a multilevel intercostal block using 0.25% levobupivacaine. The inferior pulmonary ligament was divided. The superior pulmonary vein and 2 branches of the pulmonary artery to the right upper lobe were dissected, encircled, and divided using tan reloads of the Endo GIA stapler. The right upper lobe bronchus was dissected, encircled, and divided in a similar fashion using a purple reload of the Endo GIA stapler following a successful test inflation of the lower and middle lobes. The horizontal fissure was completed with further firings of the stapler. Lymph nodes from stations 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 were sampled and sent separately for histological analysis. There was no parenchymal or stump leak to 20 cm H20 on the test inflation. Hemostasis and pneumostasis were checked and ensured. A single 24 Fr drain was placed in the apex. Hemostasis was complete. The incision was closed in layers.