The steps of thoracoscopy are choosing position, positioning, anesthesia, incision, examination, suturing and indwelling drainage tube.
1. Positioning: generally choose the healthy side lying position, the affected side of the chest cavity will be fully exposed.
2. Positioning: Choose a suitable incision, usually in the 6-7 intercostal space on the affected side.
3. Anesthesia: local anesthesia is given at the chosen puncture point, usually 2% lidocaine is chosen, if the pain is obvious, pethidine or other drugs can be given to strengthen it.
4. Incision: After anesthesia, vital signs are monitored, then an incision of about 9mm is made at the anesthetized site, followed by separation of the subcutaneous tissue into the chest cavity.
5. Examination: A thoracoscope is inserted into the chest cavity for examination, along with hydrothorax (fluid that stays in the chest cavity) examination, biopsy, and medication.
6. Suture: After the examination, the wound is sutured and a drain is placed if necessary.
This operation is traumatic and must be evaluated by a medical professional to determine if it is necessary, and if so, it should be performed by a medical professional.