Thoracoscopic Nd:YAG laser resection of a solitary pulmonary nodule

Advances in endoscopic surgical techniques and laser technology have expanded the role of thoracoscopy. We report a thoracoscopic resection of a benign pulmonary lesion. A 44-year-old man underwent a successful Nd:YAG laser-assisted thoracoscopic resection of a peripheral lung hamartoma. The patient's postoperative course was uncomplicated. Thoracotomy with its attendant morbidity was avoided. Continued success with thoracoscopic resection will have a significant impact on the management of select patients with peripheral, solitary pulmonary nodules.