Best Doctor for VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery) in Chennai
Dr. B. Thanga Saravanan — Award-Winning Cardiothoracic Surgeon is the best doctor for Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) in Chennai with more than 10+ years of experience. Dr. Thanga Saravanan performs VATS for a comprehensive range of thoracic conditions. Book an appointment now
What is VATS Surgery in Chennai?
VATS — Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery — is a modern, minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat diseases of the lungs, pleura, mediastinum, and chest wall. Instead of making a large chest incision (thoracotomy), the surgeon makes two or three small cuts (each about 1–2 cm) and inserts a thoracoscope (a tiny camera) along with specialised instruments.
The camera transmits live, high-definition video to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to operate with precision while causing minimal trauma to surrounding tissue. VATS in Chennai is now offered as the preferred approach for a wide range of thoracic conditions, replacing open chest surgery in most cases.
Conditions Treated with VATS in Chennai
Benefits of VATS Surgery
VATS offers significant clinical and lifestyle advantages over traditional open thoracic surgery. Patients in Chennai choose VATS for its proven outcomes, faster return to daily life, and superior cosmetic results.
Smaller Incisions
Only 2–3 cuts of 1–2 cm each, compared to a 20 cm open scar. Better cosmesis and virtually no visible scarring after healing.
Less Post-Op Pain
No rib-spreading means significantly reduced post-operative pain. Most patients require only mild oral analgesics within 48 hours.
Shorter Hospital Stay
Average hospital stay after VATS is just 2–4 days, compared to 7–10 days for open thoracotomy.
Reduced Blood Loss
Minimally invasive approach causes far less intraoperative bleeding, reducing the need for blood transfusions.
Better Lung Function
Preserved chest wall musculature leads to faster recovery of lung capacity and respiratory function post-surgery.
Faster Recovery
Most patients return to normal activities within 2–3 weeks. Open surgery requires 4–8 weeks of recovery time.
Lower Infection Risk
Smaller wound surface area significantly reduces the risk of surgical site infections and post-operative complications.
Magnified Surgical View
The HD camera provides a magnified, detailed view inside the chest — often superior to what is visible during open surgery.
The VATS Procedure: Step by Step
1. Pre-Operative Evaluation
A comprehensive workup including CT scan, PET scan (if needed), pulmonary function tests, echocardiography, and blood work is performed. Dr. Thanga Saravanan personally reviews all reports to plan the surgical approach.
2. Anaesthesia & Positioning
General anaesthesia with a double-lumen endotracheal tube is administered, allowing one lung to be deflated temporarily so the surgeon has clear access to the chest cavity. The patient is positioned in the lateral decubitus (side-lying) position.
3. Port Placement
Two to three small incisions (ports) are made between the ribs. A trocar is inserted through each port — one for the thoracoscope camera and the others for surgical instruments.
4. Surgical Procedure
Using real-time HD video guidance, the surgeon performs the required procedure — whether a lobectomy, wedge resection, pleurodesis, decortication, or mediastinal dissection — with precision instruments.
5. Chest Drain & Closure
A chest drain tube is placed to remove any residual air or fluid. The small incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. The drain is typically removed within 24–48 hours.
6. Recovery & Discharge
Patients are monitored in a high-dependency unit and typically discharged within 2–4 days. Detailed post-operative instructions, breathing exercises, and follow-up appointments are provided.
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Best VATS Surgeon in Chennai — Dr. B. Thanga Saravanan
When it comes to VATS in Chennai, experience, training, and outcomes matter above all else. Dr. B. Thanga Saravanan brings an exceptional combination of academic excellence, international fellowship training, and clinical expertise.
- Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery — Madras Medical College, Chennai
- Fellow, American College of Surgeons
- Fellow, Indian Association of Cardiothoracic Surgeons
- Fellow, International College of Robotic Surgeons
- Advanced Fellowship — Vajira Hospital, Thailand (2025)
- Member, Asian Thoracic Academy
- Member, International Assoc. for the Study of Lung Cancer
Best Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon of the Year 2024 — Cluster of Achievers Awards, Bangkok
Consultant & Assistant Professor, Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai. Dr. Thanga Saravanan completed his specialised Fellowship in Advanced VATS Thoracic Surgery at Vajira Hospital, Navamindhradhiraj University, Thailand (2025) — bringing cutting-edge international techniques to patients in Chennai.
Our Doctors
Dr.B.Thanga Saravanan
MS, Mch ,FACS,FICRS, Fellowship in VATS(THAILAND)
Consultant Cardiovascular and Thoracic surgeon
Dr.A.N.Ramesh
MBBS.,M.D.(Gen. Med).,D.M.Cardio
Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist
FAQ About VATS in Chennai
1. What is VATS surgery and why is it done?
VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery) is a minimally invasive surgical technique performed on the lungs, pleura, and chest cavity using a small camera (thoracoscope) and specialised instruments inserted through 2–3 tiny incisions. It is done to treat conditions like lung cancer, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, empyema, mediastinal tumours, and more. VATS replaces traditional open chest (thoracotomy) surgery in most cases, offering less pain and faster recovery.
2. What is the cost of VATS surgery in Chennai?
The cost of VATS in Chennai ranges from approximately ₹60,000 for a simple lung biopsy to ₹4,50,000 for a major lung resection (lobectomy). The final cost depends on the diagnosis, complexity, duration of hospital stay, and whether the procedure is done in a government or private facility. Insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat and Tamil Nadu's CMCHIS may cover eligible patients. Contact Dr. Thanga Saravanan's clinic for a detailed, personalised quote.
3. Who is the best doctor for VATS surgery in Chennai?
Dr. B. Thanga Saravanan is widely regarded as one of the best VATS surgeons in Chennai. He holds an MCh in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery from Madras Medical College, a Fellowship in Advanced VATS Thoracic Surgery from Vajira Hospital, Thailand (2025), and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). He won the Best Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon of the Year 2024 Award in Bangkok and currently practices at Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai.
4. Is VATS surgery safe?
Yes, VATS is a well-established, safe procedure performed worldwide. When performed by an experienced thoracic surgeon like Dr. Thanga Saravanan, VATS carries a lower risk of complications compared to open thoracotomy. Potential risks — as with any surgery — include bleeding, infection, air leak, or reaction to anaesthesia, but these are significantly reduced with the minimally invasive approach. Your surgeon will discuss your individual risk profile during the pre-operative consultation.
5. How long does recovery take after VATS?
Recovery after VATS is significantly faster than open surgery. Most patients are discharged within 2–4 days and can return to light daily activities within 1–2 weeks. Full return to work and normal physical activity typically takes 2–4 weeks, compared to 6–8 weeks for open thoracotomy. Breathing exercises (spirometry) are recommended post-operatively to restore lung function quickly.
6. Can VATS be used to treat lung cancer?
Absolutely. VATS lobectomy is the gold-standard treatment for early-stage (Stage I and II) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Multiple studies have demonstrated that VATS lobectomy offers equivalent cancer control outcomes to open surgery, with the added benefits of less pain, shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery. Dr. Thanga Saravanan performs VATS lobectomy and segmentectomy for eligible lung cancer patients in Chennai.
7. What is the difference between VATS and robotic thoracic surgery?
Both VATS and robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) are minimally invasive. In VATS, the surgeon directly controls the instruments through small ports guided by a video camera. In robotic surgery, the surgeon controls robotic arms from a console, which can offer enhanced 3D vision and greater instrument range of motion. VATS is highly effective, widely available, and more cost-effective. Dr. Thanga Saravanan is qualified in both approaches and recommends the most suitable technique based on each patient's diagnosis.
8. How do I prepare for VATS surgery?
Preparation for VATS includes a thorough pre-operative assessment (CT chest, PFTs, blood work), stopping blood thinners and smoking at least 4–6 weeks before surgery, fasting from midnight prior to the procedure, and arranging post-operative home support. Dr. Thanga Saravanan's team will provide a personalised pre-op checklist and answer all your questions at the pre-surgical consultation.
9. Which hospital in Chennai is best for VATS surgery?
Dr. B. Thanga Saravanan performs VATS at St Thomas Heart Centre, Chennai — a well-equipped tertiary care centre with a dedicated cardiovascular and thoracic surgery department, modern operation theatres, HDU/ICU facilities, and an experienced anaesthesia team. He previously performed surgeries at Government Stanley Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, serving a broad patient population including government health scheme beneficiaries.
10. Does health insurance cover VATS surgery in Chennai?
Yes, most private health insurance plans in India cover VATS surgery as it is a recognised standard surgical procedure. Government schemes including Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS) also cover eligible thoracic surgical procedures. It is advisable to check with your insurer or our hospital billing team beforehand. Our team will assist with insurance documentation and pre-authorisation.