Thoracoscopy is typically performed under local or general anesthesia. The procedure involves the following steps:
The patient is positioned, usually lying on their side. Small incisions (ports) are made in the chest wall. The thoracoscope is inserted through one of the ports, and other instruments may be inserted through additional ports. The pleural space is examined, and biopsies or other interventions are performed as needed. Once the procedure is complete, the instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed.
