National Wealth and the Global Spread of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery: Insights from the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons Database

National wealth, as measured by GDP per capita, significantly influences the adoption of VATS but not RATS, indicating that, whereas economic factors facilitate the initial diffusion of technology, other systemic and institutional variables, such as health technology assessment, reimbursement, and procurement frameworks, govern the uptake of more advanced platforms. Addressing disparities in access to minimally invasive thoracic surgery requires coordinated efforts to strengthen infrastructure, training, and policy frameworks. Scientific societies could play a pivotal role in promoting the equitable dissemination and implementation of these innovations across diverse health-care systems.