Depending on the condition, thoracic procedures can be performed using techniques like laparoscopic surgery (surgery using cameras), endoscopy, or bronchoscopy.  Our thoracic surgeons offer minimally invasive procedures for implanting diaphragmatic pacemakers in patients with spinal cord injury and certain muscular dystrophies, freeing them from dependence upon ventilators for breathing. For patients with other conditions or for those who do not meet the requirements for minimally-invasive surgery, traditional open surgery remains an option and will be addressed by your Westmed physician.

Conditions We Treat

• Achalasia
• Bronchogenic cyst
• Carcinoid tumor
• Diaphragm paralysis
• Emphysema
• Esophageal cancer, diverticulum and stricture
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Hiatal and paraesophageal hernias
• Hyperhidrosis
• Lung nodules, benign and metastatic
• Lung cancer
• Mediastinal tumors
• Myasthenia gravis
• Malignant pleural effusion
• Pericardial effusion
• Pneumothorax
• Pulmonary sequestration
• Thymoma

Whether the problem is with the lungs or another organ or structure located within the chest, the thoracic surgeons are part of a team that will work together with you to develop a treatment plan designed to be optimally effective for a patient’s specific needs.