Thoracoscopy

Thoracoscopy is a procedure that helps doctors observe the lateral space in the chest (outside the lungs). This procedure is performed using a thoracoscope, which is a thin, soft tube flexible, with a light and a small camera on the end. The tube is inserted through a small incision in the lower part of the shoulder blade, between the ribs. Thoracoscopy is sometimes performed as part of a VATS procedure, which stands for endo endoscopy assisted procedure.