A case series of VATS intrapericardial pneumonectomy: a bi-centric experience

VATS intrapericardial pneumonectomy offers a viable alternative to traditional open surgery for patients with large or locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer, providing enhanced visualization, reduced postoperative pain, and faster recovery. Our multi-center experience with six patients demonstrates the procedure's feasibility and safety, even in challenging cases with pericardial invasion. Despite the complexity of the surgery, the use of advanced VATS techniques and careful intraoperative assessments can lead to successful outcomes. However, given the associated risks, especially with postoperative complications, further studies with larger cohorts are needed to validate these findings and refine surgical techniques.