Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in swine: an animal model for thoracoscopic lobectomy training

Abstract

Swine have been frequently used for hands-on training in surgery but there are no reports in the literature describing the anatomical, anaesthetic and technical peculiarities that must be observed during videothoracoscopic lobectomy training in swine. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy using swine is an adequate method to train thoracic surgeons. For surgeons to make the best use of minimally invasive technique training, it is essential that issues related to the anatomy, anaesthesia, monopulmonary ventilation and surgical technique described in this study are taken into account.