Right Pneumonectomy

Abstract

Pneumonectomy has become less common both in absolute number and as a proportion of all lung resections. This is a consequence of improved staging and also an emphasis towards lung sparing procedures if still oncologically appropriate. In many cases the patient is prepared for pneumonectomy but the surgeon reassesses intra-operatively and if possible, may perform an alternative lung resection such as a sleeve resection and lobectomy to avoid pneumonectomy. This intra-operative assessment of tumour location, involvement of key structures and potential resection margins is best performed via a thoracotomy. It is therefore rare to undertake pneumonectomy by VATS so the open operation is described here in detail.