Publications by authors named "Xuegang Cao"
Background: This study explored the safety and feasibility of uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) decortication in patients presenting with stage III tuberculous empyema with severe rib crowding.
Methods: From August 2017 to January /2019, 33 patients with stage III tuberculous empyema and severe rib crowding underwent uniportal VATS decortication with partial rib resection and the use of a customized periosteal stripper. Preoperative and postoperative chest computed tomography (CT) imaging and pulmonary function testing were analyzed to evaluate the clinical significance of certain imaging findings and surgical efficacy.