Subxiphoid single-incision thoracoscopic surgery for bilateral primary spontaneous pneumothorax.

Abstract

It has been reported that single-incision thoracoscopic surgery can reduce postoperative pain without compromising the main surgical steps required for treating patients affected by primary spontaneous pneumothorax. However, all the reported thoracoscopic surgery cases with a single-incision procedure were via the intercostal route for unilateral pulmonary lesions. We present a novel single-incision thoracoscopic technique via a subxiphoid route to perform one-stage bilateral thoracoscopic surgery for bilateral spontaneous pneumothorax. Reduced postoperative pain, shorter operative time, and better cosmetic results are potential benefits of this technique in selected patients. The subxiphoid single-incision procedure may be indicated in patients with bilateral pulmonary lesions requiring surgical resections.