Augusta Health Thoracic Surgery Clinic
Critical care for patients with conditions that affect the lungs, esophagus, and other organs in the chest is made possible at Augusta Health through a dynamic collaboration with the University of Virginia Health System. With a focus on passionate patient care, convenience, and improving disease prognosis, our thoracic surgery practice is supported by experienced pulmonary and critical care physicians at the hospital, as well as the experienced radiologists and cancer staff.
Thoracic surgeon Dr. Christine Lau and her supporting physicians and staff perform (non-cardiac) procedures weekly at Augusta Health, and she holds clinic hours in the Heart and Vascular Center. Our thoracic surgeon uses cutting-edge imaging technology and — whenever possible — minimally invasive techniques, such as Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS).
Our unique thoracic surgery partnership ensures that people with lung cancer, emphysema, and other conditions of the chest can be treated close to home.
Services
Our surgeon has advanced training and experience to treat patients with many conditions, such as:
- Lung cancer
- Benign diseases and tumors of the lung and esophagus (including achalasia and strictures)
- Severe gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn)
- Paraesophageal hernia
- Mesothelioma
- Mediastinal tumors and diseases
- Chest wall tumors
- Pleural diseases (including pneumothorax, infections, and pleural effusions)
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
- Mediastinal tumors and diseases
- Emphysema
- Zenkers diverticulum
Common Tests and Procedures
Procedures and treatments provided by Augusta Health Thoracic Surgery require a referral from a primary care physician.
- Lung biopsy/endobroncial lung biopsy
- Removal of a lung lobe (lobectomy)
- Removal of fibrotic tissue surrounding the lung (decortication)
- Lung resection
- Sympathectomy
- Thymectomy
- Mediastinal biopsy
- Excision of cysts or tumors
- Heller Myotomy
- Laprascopic Nisson Fundoplication
- Chest reconstruction
