Thoracic Surgery

Conditions affecting the lungs, esophagus, and chest can make everyday activities more difficult. You may notice ongoing reflux, trouble swallowing, chest discomfort, or changes in your breathing that require further evaluation. Thoracic surgery focuses on treating conditions inside the chest that are not related to the heart. 

At WMCHealth, our thoracic surgeons coordinate care across the network so you receive support from the specialists involved in every stage of your care. We offer minimally invasive, robotic, and traditional surgical approaches based on your needs and diagnosis. Our team also works closely with specialists across pulmonology, cancer care, gastroenterology, and trauma services to coordinate your care. 

Our Approach to Thoracic Surgery 

Thoracic surgery often involves care from several specialties working together. At WMCHealth, our thoracic surgeons coordinate care across the network to help patients move through evaluation, treatment, and recovery with support from the most supportive team. 

Multidisciplinary Care 

Specialists involved in thoracic surgery care may include: 

• Radiologists 
• Pulmonologists 
• Trauma specialists 
• Gastroenterologists 
• Medical oncologists 
• Radiation oncologists 
• Thoracic surgery specialists 

This collaborative approach helps ensure your care plan reflects their diagnosis, symptoms, overall health, and treatment goals. 

Coordinated Specialty Programs 

You may be referred to thoracic surgery after imaging or lung cancer screening identifies a nodule or another chest abnormality. Others may need surgical treatment for reflux, swallowing disorders, chest wall conditions, or diseases affecting the esophagus. 

Our thoracic surgery team works closely with the Thoracic Oncology program and the Center for Thoracic Trauma when specialized cancer or trauma care is needed. This coordination allows your care team to respond quickly when specialized cancer or trauma expertise is needed.