Thoracic Surgery
When you or a loved one needs thoracic surgery — whether for cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), a complex condition or something more routine, like a rib injury — it’s natural to feel anxious and full of questions. At Cleveland Clinic London, our internationally recognised thoracic surgeons provide expert, timely care for all conditions affecting your chest. We specialise in minimally invasive and robotic techniques to reduce pain, minimise risk and lead to a faster recovery.
Why Choose Us for Thoracic Surgery?
Specialised equipment:
Our hybrid operating theatre is equipped with some of the world’s most sophisticated imaging and surgical technology. We use a navigational bronchoscope to examine and biopsy tumours in hard-to-reach areas of your lungs — without the need for surgery. We also provide CT-guided lung procedures and use the latest robotic-assisted surgical techniques.
Comprehensive treatment:
We work with The London Clinic to provide complete cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation therapy and other cancer treatments. Your thoracic surgeon collaborates directly with your consultants at The London Clinic to monitor your progress and streamline your care.
Innovation and research:
Our consultants have pioneered groundbreaking surgical techniques. These include Europe’s first successful use of navigational bronchoscopy, as well as being the world’s first to use microwave ablation to destroy lung tumours without open surgery.
Specialised knowledge:
Our thoracic surgeons specialise in congenital and traumatic chest wall conditions, severe COPD, mesothelioma and lung metastases (cancer that has spread to the lungs). This makes them uniquely qualified to care for any thoracic disease, no matter how complex. Meet our team.
Collaborative care:
Our consultants work closely together to provide you with comprehensive care. Your team may include specialists in chest and respiratory medicine, radiology, oncology, nursing and physiotherapy. Depending on your needs, you may also receive care from experts in cardiology, gastroenterology, ENT, neurosurgery and more.
Minimally invasive options:
Whenever possible, we use robotic-assisted (keyhole) and video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) to reduce pain, limit incisions and help you recover faster. These minimally invasive techniques are often used for procedures such as lung cancer surgery and diaphragm plication.
Thoracic Conditions We Treat at Cleveland Clinic London
Our surgeons care for all types of chest conditions, including:
- Airway diseases and obstructions
- Chest wall conditions
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema
- Collapsed lung (pneumothorax)
- Hyperhidrosis
- Lung cancer and mesothelioma
- Lung nodules
- Myasthenia gravis
- Paralysed diaphragm
- Pleural effusion
- Rib injuries and conditions, like slipping rib syndrome
- Thoracic problems caused by connective tissue or neuromuscular disorders
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
Consultants Who Perform Thoracic Surgery
Locations
Our consultants see patients in modern and technologically advanced facilities in the heart of London.Thoracic Surgeries We Offer at Cleveland Clinic London
Our thoracic surgeons use the latest procedures for lung and chest conditions. Many of these treatments aren’t widely available in London. You may have:
Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery
Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) allows our surgeons to operate with greater precision and fewer risks. This minimally invasive technique results in smaller incisions, less pain after surgery and a quicker recovery. We may recommend robotic-assisted techniques for:
- Chest wall surgery
- Diaphragmatic surgery
- Lung cancer surgery
- Lung resection
- Mediastinoscopy
Bronchoscopic microwave ablation for lung nodules
We are one of the few centres in Europe offering bronchoscopic microwave ablation of lung nodules. Your surgeon inserts a special instrument called a bronchoscope through your nose or mouth. This tool uses electromagnetic navigation and CT technology to create a detailed map of your lungs. Your surgeon uses this map to find and destroy lung nodules with heat, so you don’t need surgery.
Lung cancer surgery
Our surgeons use robotic- or video-assisted thoracic surgery to perform lung segmentectomy — removing only the damaged part of your lung. This approach helps preserve healthy lung tissue and keeps your lungs working better after surgery.
Surgery for pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum
We specialise in caring for young adults with congenital (present at birth) conditions, like pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum. Surgery options include Nuss procedure, Ravitch procedure and bracing for pectus carinatum.
Lung volume reduction surgery
We are one of the few private centres in London offering bronchoscopic lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) for severe COPD and emphysema. In this minimally invasive procedure, we implant tiny, one-way valves in your airways, so your lungs can work better. We also use LVRS to remove the damaged parts of your lungs.
Sympathectomy for hyperhidrosis
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) may be treated with a sympathectomy. Our surgeons cut part of the nerve in your chest that signals your sweat glands to work. After surgery, you’ll stop sweating in your face, palms and armpits. This procedure can also help with excessive blushing.
How Much Does It Cost To Have Thoracic Surgery at Cleveland Clinic London?
The cost of your care depends on the services you need. Our team is available to answer any questions you have, discuss cost estimates — including specific costs for thoracic procedures — and help guide you through the financial side of your care. For your convenience, we offer the option to self-pay or use private medical insurance.
What’s Next?
We understand that the thought of having chest surgery can be daunting. But it may be the first important step. At Cleveland Clinic London, our thoracic surgeons, along with our entire team of expert consultants, are here to provide the exceptional care you need. From your initial consultation and throughout your recovery, you can count on us to guide your treatment with skill and compassion — so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
Contact us or call +44 20 3423 7500 for more information, including how to book an appointment. For specific information about our heart, vascular or thoracic services, you can also email the HVTI access team [email protected].
Appointments
Ready to see us? We’re ready for you and look forward to the opportunity to assist with your needs. We’re available to take your call Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. You’re also welcome to request an appointment online.
Self-Pay
We offer convenient self-pay services. But what does that mean? With this option, you’ll benefit from transparent pricing, access to unparalleled care, and the expertise of our consultants.
Private Insurance
Need help using your private insurance? We make it easy to get your referral, authorisation and make sure everything’s covered so you can come into your appointment with one less thing to worry about.
