A thoracotomy is a procedure that lets a surgeon see into the thoracic cavity to diagnose an illness or to treat one. The surgeon can see your lungs, heart, aorta, esophagus and possibly your spine.

A thoracotomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting open the chest wall to gain access into the pleural cavity. [1] It is mostly performed by specialist cardiothoracic surgeons, although emergency …

Nov 20, 2024 · What Is a Thoracotomy? A thoracotomy is a surgical procedure in which a cut is made between the ribs to see and reach the lungs or other organs in the chest or thorax.

Thoracotomy is an operation in which the chest wall is opened to view the internal chest organs, to obtain samples of tissue for laboratory examination, and to treat disorders of the lungs, heart, or …

Nov 3, 2023 · A thoracotomy is when a surgeon goes between your ribs to get to your heart, lungs, or esophagus to diagnose or treat an illness.

Dec 9, 2025 · What do I need to know about a thoracotomy? A thoracotomy is surgery to repair damage to the blood vessels and organs inside your chest. These organs include your esophagus, heart, …

Jul 20, 2023 · A thoracotomy is an incision in the chest and is normally carried out so the doctor can operate on the heart, lungs, or other structures in the chest. This is a way to treat lung cancer.

Thoracotomy describes an incision made in the chest wall to access the contents of the thoracic cavity. Thoracotomies typically can be divided into two categories; anterolateral thoracotomies and …

Thoracotomy is a surgical procedure that allows your surgeon to evaluate and examine your lung and potentially remove a portion of it. An incision is made in the side of your chest between the ribs.

For the typical lung procedure, the thoracotomy is made in the fourth or fifth intercostal space, which allows entry into the pleural space directly over the pulmonary hilum.