Learning curve for complex segmentectomy via uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for the treatment of early-stage lung cancer

Background: Recently, segmentectomy has emerged as a viable treatment option for early-stage lung cancer. Segmentectomy can be divided into simple segmentectomy and complex segmentectomy. While simple segmentectomy is a relatively straightforward surgical procedure, complex segmentectomy poses a considerable challenge because of its intricate anatomical variations and the need for a complex surgical approach. The introduction of uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) further complicates matters. This study aimed to assess whether thoracic surgeons, who have previously conducted only uniportal VATS lobectomy and simple segmentectomy, could effectively navigate the learning curve when undertaking their first complex segmentectomy procedure. Methods: A single surgeon with experience limited to uniportal VATS lobectomy and simple segmentectomy began performing uniportal VATS complex segmentectomy in 2019, completing 167 cases of complex segmentectomy during the same period and performing 70 cases of simple segmentectomy. We analyzed the learning curve by comparing the surgical outcomes and operative time curves between simple segmentectomy and complex segmentectomy. Results: The complex segmentectomy group exhibited similarities with the simple segmentectomy group in terms of patient and tumor characteristics, operative outcomes, and postoperative outcomes, with the exception of the complex segmentectomy group showing slightly reduced chest tube drainage and shorter hospital stays. The operative times and time curve patterns showed no significant difference between the two groups, indicating a potential lack of a distinct learning curve for complex segmentectomy. Conclusions: Complex segmentectomy via uniportal VATS, when performed by surgeons proficient in simple segmentectomy and lobectomy techniques, has comparable outcomes and potentially eliminates the need for an extensive learning curve. This approach expands the options for treating early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), allowing for tailored patient care. Further studies are needed to assess long-term outcomes.