Tips and tricks in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy.

In 2012, open procedures represented 63% of the total number of lobectomies performed in our unit; in 2015, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy numbers increased up to 66% of the total number of lobectomies performed. When carrying out the procedures, we followed the guidelines presented by the International VATS Lobectomy Consensus Group regarding indications, contraindications, preoperative investigations and conversions. In view of 280 VATS major lung resections from May 2012 to May 2016, we describe some tips and tricks that can be useful in this surgical technique, from general principles to single operative procedures.