🔍 Key Findings
Case 1: Chest wall lift improved oxygenation (PaO₂ increased from 179.4 to 306.3 mmHg) and enabled thoracoscopic-assisted lobectomy in a cat with pleural effusion and pulmonary carcinoma.
Case 2: Chest wall lift using a Steinmann pin allowed 3-port thoracoscopic lobectomy for a bronchial foreign body; no complications observed.
Both cats: Lift increased working space and eliminated need for thoracotomy; no device-related complications.
Pretied ligating loops (PLL) were effective for hilar vessel ligation—preferred over staplers or self-locking ligatures in feline thorax.
Conclusion: Thoracic lift is a novel, minimally invasive method enhancing thoracoscopic procedures in small patients, particularly cats.
