ABSTRACT
Single-port (uniportal) video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) represents an evolution of traditional VATS principles and, at the same time, a formidable return to the geometric configuration of classic open thoracotomies. The technical feasibility of uniportal VATS is heavily dependent on preoperative planning of the surgical coordinates necessary to identify the location of the single incision. Recurrent pleural or pericardial effusions, early empyemas, interstitial lung disease, peripheral pulmonary nodules, or ground glass opacities, as well as pleural or mediastinal masses and lymph node biopsy, are all amenable to uniportal VATS, yielding precise histological diagnosis and short hospitalizations. One of the most appropriate indications for uniportal VATS seems to be represented by the management of pneumothorax. The presence of a chest drain, often placed in an emergency setting, and of a usually visible target lesion make the single-port approach immediately feasible both under general or loco-regional anesthesia.
