Journal of thoracic disease
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Postsurgical pain control can have a significant impact on patient outcomes and hospital-associated costs. We sought to evaluate the effect of intercostal nerve blocks using liposomal bupivacaine on length of stay (LOS) in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). ⋯ The use of liposomal bupivacaine is associated with decreased LOS in postoperative thoracic surgery patients and earlier return to ambulation. It does not, however, decrease 24-hour postoperative pain scores or opioid usage.
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We previously reported the techniques for total endoscopic atrial septal defect (ASD) repair on hearts arrested with cardioplegia through three small incisions in the chest wall without aid of a surgical robotic system. The optimal results motivated us to use total thoracoscopic technology for ASD on perfused beating hearts. ⋯ Total thoracoscopic closure of ASD without assistance of a surgical robotic system on beating heart is safe and feasible and can be used as a therapeutic option for ASD, and by using the mentioned technique, less injuries are applied to patients.