Uniportal Robotic-Assisted Sleeve Resection of the Left Main Bronchus and Secondary Carinal Reconstruction for Typical Carcinoid Tumour

Abstract

Bronchial sleeve resection is the preferred technique over pneumonectomy for centrally located tumours, preserving lung function and improving survival. We present a uniportal robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) technique for left main bronchus (LMB) sleeve resection with secondary carinal reconstruction in a patient with a typical carcinoid tumour. Through a single 4 cm incision, the LMB and its bifurcation were resected and reconstructed using a continuous absorbable barbed suture. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with chest drain removal and discharge on postoperative day 2. Final pathology confirmed tumour-free margins without lymph node involvement. Uniportal RATS offers a feasible and minimally invasive option for complex airway reconstruction, potentially improving postoperative recovery while maintaining oncological standards in selected patients with appropriate surgical expertise.