Structured training and early outcomes in major pulmonary resections by a junior thoracic surgeon: a retrospective observational study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The early learning curve of junior thoracic surgeons is not well characterized, despite evidence that proficiency in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy often requires 50-60 cases. This study assessed the surgical progression and outcomes of a single junior thoracic surgeon during the first three years of independent practice, focusing on major pulmonary resections and the integration of segmentectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all thoracic operations performed by a single surgeon from June 2022 to June 2025. A total of 123 patients were included, encompassing primary lung cancer, pulmonary metastasis, and infectious disease. Quarterly trends in operative time, blood loss, and case volume were assessed, with particular focus on major pu

SUBMITTER: Ahn S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12603400 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature