Thoracoscopy, also known as medical or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to examine the pleural cavity, lungs, and mediastinum. It allows physicians to visualise the inside of the chest, obtain tissue biopsies, drain fluid collections, or perform specific surgical interventions without the need for a large open chest incision. Thoracoscopy is commonly used in pulmonology, thoracic surgery, and oncology for evaluating pleural diseases, lung nodules, and unexplained chest conditions.

During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube called a thoracoscope, equipped with a camera and light source, is inserted through a small incision in the chest wall. Additional instruments can be introduced through other small incisions to perform biopsies, remove fluid (pleural effusion), or treat conditions such as pneumothorax or pleural tumours. Real-time video monitoring on a screen guides the physician, ensuring precise and safe intervention.

Thoracoscopy is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity and purpose of the procedure. It is generally safe, with lower complication rates and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. The procedure typically takes 30–90 minutes, and most patients experience minimal post-procedure discomfort. The thoracoscopy service is closely integrated with pulmonology, radiology, oncology, and pathology departments. It provides critical diagnostic information for lung cancer staging, evaluation of pleural diseases, detection of infections, and assessment of unexplained chest abnormalities. Post-procedure care includes monitoring for air leaks, bleeding, and infection. By offering minimally invasive access to the chest cavity, thoracoscopy enables accurate diagnosis, targeted treatment, and faster recovery, improving patient outcomes and quality of life. It is a cornerstone in modern pulmonary and thoracic medicine.