Utility of simulations using multidetector-row computed tomography for thoracoscopic lung tumor enucleation

Abstract

We report on the utility of simulations using three-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT) for detecting a tumor's location and planning the surgical approach. A 68-year-old man with a history of pyothorax had a pulmonary hamartoma detected by chest CT. Based on a view of the tumor's location, we considered that surgery was possible only from a working space above the diaphragm. Without releasing adhesion between the parietal and visceral pleura, a satisfactory working space was created by compressing the diaphragm. The tumor was enucleated, and the pleura was sutured. 3DCT simulations may contribute to less invasive procedures for thoracoscopic surgery.