Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) in Children

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) in Children is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat various thoracic conditions in pediatric patients, just like in adults—but with modifications for smaller anatomy and specific pediatric conditions.

What Is Pediatric VATS?

Pediatric VATS involves:

• Making small incisions (typically 3–5 mm in infants, 5–10 mm in older children)
• Using a tiny thoracoscope and miniature instruments
• Performing surgery on the lungs, pleura, diaphragm, mediastinum, or esophagus with real-time video guidance

Common Indications for VATS in Children

Neonates & Infants:

• Congenital lung malformations, such as:
  • Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation (CPAM)
  • Bronchopulmonary Sequestration
  • Congenital Lobar Emphysema
• Diaphragmatic hernia repair
• Empyema drainage / decortication
• Esophageal atresia / tracheoesophageal fistula (selected cases)

Older Children:

• Lung biopsies (for interstitial lung disease, infections)
• Thymectomy (e.g., for myasthenia gravis)
• Mediastinal mass biopsy or resection
• Pleurodesis for spontaneous pneumothorax
• Resection of bullae or blebs

Benefits of VATS in Children

• Minimally invasive: avoids large thoracotomy incisions
• Less postoperative pain
• Faster recovery and shorter hospital stay
• Better cosmetic outcomes
• Reduced risk of long-term musculoskeletal complications (e.g., scoliosis from thoracotomy)