Roper St. Francis

Thoracic surgery

At Roper St. Francis Healthcare, you’ll find expert surgical care for conditions of the lungs, chest and airway. We’ll support every step of your care, so you always feel informed and confident in your treatment plan.

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Thoracic surgeon with patients

Supportive care from diagnosis to recovery

Surgery can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Our team pairs refined expertise with heartfelt support — keeping your safety, comfort and peace of mind at the heart of everything we do. From your first appointment to your recovery at home, we coordinate every detail of your care. Our goal is simple: to help you breathe easier and heal faster, so you can get back to the life you love.

Conditions

We treat many different chest and lung problems, including both cancerous and non-cancerous diseases. 

These conditions include:

  • Chest wall injuries and deformities: Like a sunken or protruding chest 
  • Emphysema: And other types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that affect the lungs
  • Esophageal disorders: Including cancer of the esophagus 
  • Lung cancer and chest tumors: Growths in the chest wall that may or may not be cancerous 
  • Mediastinal masses: Growths in the space between your lungs that are usually benign (non-cancerous) 
  • Pleural effusion: Fluid buildup around the lungs
  • Swallowing problems: Like achalasia, a disorder that affects the esophagus 

Treatments

Our skilled surgeons use advanced minimally invasive techniques designed to reduce discomfort and support faster recovery. For chest conditions: 

  • Laparoscopic surgery for esophageal conditions: This is often done with the help of a 3D high-definition camera inserted through small incisions.
  • Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): A thin tube with a tiny camera on the end lets your surgeon see inside your chest cavity as they perform the procedure.

For both simple and complex procedures that require greater surgical precision and advanced chest resections. Our surgeons will use Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery, a type of robotic surgical tool enhanced with the help of a 3D high-definition camera.

What to expect at every stage

Man on fishing boat
Your surgeon will meet with you for a consultation and arrange any diagnostic testing you may need, such as a CT scan, PET scan or pulmonary function tests. During this appointment, your care team will make sure you have everything you need to feel prepared for your procedure, including:
  • Reviewing your medical history
  • Providing clear instructions about pre-surgery fasting
  • Reminding you to bring your medications and emergency contact information on the day of surgery
  • Explaining your anesthesia plan and what to expect
  • Educating you about the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program to support a faster recovery and discharge
Your care team will explain every step of the process and answer all of your questions so you can feel confident and prepared for your procedure.
Surgery in progress

As your surgery begins, your care team will explain the anesthesia they will use and how they will monitor you throughout the procedure. Your team typically includes a surgeon, an anesthesiologist and a nurse specialist, all working together to keep you safe and comfortable.

man recovering after surgery
Depending on your procedure, you may need to stay in the hospital, or you may be able to go home the same day. Your care team will let you know what to expect. Before you leave, we'll make sure you have detailed instructions for your recovery at home and answer any questions you may have. 

We will also:
  • Explain supportive services, such as rehabilitation or physical therapy, if you need them
  • Make sure you know how to manage your pain
  • Schedule any necessary follow-up appointments
No matter what type of surgery you have, we'll be there to support you every step of the way.

Your thoracic team

Our surgeons are leaders in complex chest and lung procedures. They combine precision, innovation and compassion to help you achieve the best outcomes possible.

Thoracic surgery locations

You’ll find expert services at convenient Roper St. Francis Healthcare locations across the greater Charleston area.

People also ask

Get answers to common questions about thoracic surgery, including when it may be needed, what to expect during recovery and the follow-up care available to support your healing.

Related services & specialties

  • Surgery

    Expert surgical care using advanced techniques for better recovery.

Schedule a consultation

Our specialists provide advanced, personalized treatment from diagnosis through recovery. Schedule a consultation or find a location near you today.

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