Thoracoscopy
A minimally invasive procedure to examine the space around your lungs
If you’ve been advised to undergo a thoracoscopy, it’s natural to have questions. This page explains what the procedure is, why it may be needed, and what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What is a thoracoscopy?
Thoracoscopy is a procedure that allows Dr. Swapnil to look inside the chest cavity — the space between your lungs and chest wall — using a thin camera called a thoracoscope.
A small cut is made on the side of the chest, and the camera is gently inserted to examine the lining around the lungs, known as the pleura.
This procedure helps identify the cause of fluid buildup, infections, inflammation, or abnormal growths that may not be fully understood through scans alone.
If needed, Dr. Swapnil can also take a small tissue sample (biopsy) during the procedure for detailed testing.
In simple words: Thoracoscopy helps your doctor see the area around your lungs directly and accurately — without needing major surgery.
How the thoracoscope works
Small incision on chest
Tiny opening made between the ribs
Thoracoscope inserted
A thin camera enters the pleural space
Pleural space examined
The lining around the lungs is checked carefully
Fluid or abnormal tissue checked
Fluid buildup, infection, or growths are examined directly
Biopsy if needed
A small tissue sample is collected safely for testing
WHY IS THORACOSCOPY DONE?
recommended this procedure?
Fluid around the lungs
Unexplained chest infection
Pleural thickening
Suspected tuberculosis
Thoracoscopy can help diagnose TB affecting the pleura when regular tests are unclear.
Persistent breathlessness
Recurrent pleural effusion
What to expect —
before, during & after
Before the procedure
Preparation & fasting
You will usually need to avoid food and drinks for at least 6 hours before the procedure. Inform Dr. Swapnil about any blood thinners, diabetes medicines, or existing medical conditions.
At the hospital
Check-in & monitoring
Your vitals will be checked, and a small IV line will be placed for medications and sedation. The team will explain the procedure and answer your questions.
During thoracoscopy
Camera examination & biopsy
A small cut is made on the chest wall after numbing the area. The thoracoscope is inserted carefully to examine the pleural space. If needed, fluid is drained or a biopsy is taken.
Recovery
Observation & rest
You will rest in a monitored recovery area. Some mild soreness near the incision site is normal for a day or two.
Results
Lab reports & follow-up
If only a visual check was done, Dr. Swapnil may share initial findings the same day. If a biopsy was taken, lab results take 5 – 7 working days. A follow-up is scheduled to walk through everything in detail.
Is thoracoscopy safe?
Yes. Thoracoscopy is a commonly performed minimally invasive procedure and is generally considered safe when done by an experienced pulmonologist.
- Mild chest discomfort or soreness for a few days is normal
- Some patients may feel tired after sedation
- A small dressing is placed over the incision site
- Serious complications are uncommon
- Dr. Swapnil will explain all possible risks before the procedure
Your doctor
Dr. Swapnil Thorve
Dr. Swapnil has performed hundreds of bronchoscopies across his 10+ years of clinical practice at LTMMC & GH Sion, Gurunanak Hospital, and other leading Mumbai hospitals. His gold medal academic training and specialisation in interventional pulmonology means every procedure is performed with the highest level of precision and care.
- DNB Pulmonary Medicine — Lilavati Hospital, Bandra
- Fellowship in Pulmonary Critical Care — LTMMC Sion
- European Diploma in Adult Respiratory Medicine — ERS
- Gold Medalist · MUHS, Maharashtra
- 20+ research articles in indexed journals
Frequently asked questions
If you have a question that isn’t answered here, WhatsApp Dr. Swapnil’s team directly — they’ll respond promptly.
You are given sedation or anaesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Mild soreness afterward is common but usually manageable with medicines.
Most patients stay for observation for a few hours or overnight, depending on the procedure and recovery.
The incision is very small and may require a stitch or dressing depending on the procedure.
A biopsy helps identify infections, inflammation, tuberculosis, or cancer more accurately through laboratory testing.
Most patients resume light activities within a few days. Dr. Swapnil will guide you based on your recovery.
Thoracoscopy is minimally invasive, meaning smaller cuts, faster recovery, and less discomfort compared to traditional open surgery in many cases.
Ready to get started
Ready to Breath Easier?
Book a consultation with Dr. Swapnil Thorve at Sion Hospital or Gurunanak Hospital, Bandra. Same-week appointments available.