Minimally invasive surgery versus thoracotomy for locally advanced lung cancers: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Locally advanced lung cancer is generally regarded as a relative contraindication for minimally invasive surgical approaches. The comparative outcomes between minimally invasive techniques and conventional open thoracotomy in this specific patient population have not been adequately investigated through rigorous clinical studies.

Methods

We systematically searched Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science for studies comparing minimally invasive (robotic and laparoscopic) approaches with conventional open thoracotomy. Pooled standard mean differences, relative risks, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024526598).

Results

There were 7819 participants including 15 articles. C

SUBMITTER: Chen Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12826292 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature