false
Thoracic Surgery Program
Since the 1930s, Mass General Brigham has provided expert and personalized care for patients with thoracic diseases. You have access to the latest therapies and treatments addressing a spectrum of disorders, from common conditions to rare cancers.
International leaders in thoracic surgery
Mass General Brigham has some of the finest thoracic specialists in the world and is one of the largest thoracic programs in the nation. Our team continues a history of pioneering lifesaving breakthroughs and delivering innovative treatments for a wide range of thoracic conditions affecting the lungs, trachea, esophagus, chest wall, and diaphragm. We tailor your treatment plan to include the latest medical techniques and surgical treatments to provide the best possible outcome.
center
Our approach to thoracic surgery
Our team provides a compassionate, personalized approach and unmatched surgical expertise in treating thoracic diseases, including cancer.
Excellence in thoracic surgery
Our board-certified surgeons have extensive training and experience addressing a wide range of thoracic disorders, including:
- Cancerous (malignant) lung disease
- Cancerous (malignant) esophageal disease
- Benign lung diseases
- Benign esophageal diseases
- Airway and trachea disorders
- Chest wall deformities
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
- Thymic disorders
Comprehensive cancer care
Our team diagnoses and treats a broad spectrum of thoracic cancers using the latest methods and advanced surgical approaches. We discuss the diagnosis and treatment plan with you, so you feel informed and confident about our partnership in your care. We work with you to tailor a care plan that meets your needs and improves outcomes and quality of life. Your health priorities and philosophies will affect this care.
Team-based approach
You benefit from the expertise and commitment to excellence of specialists across Mass General Brigham. Whether your diagnosis involves cancer or a benign condition, we collaborate to deliver quality treatment from a care team that may include:
- Pulmonologists
- Medical, radiation, and surgical oncologists
- Gastroenterologists
- Geriatricians
- Pathologists
- Anesthesiologists
- Thoracic radiologists
Minimally invasive and robotic surgery
Our surgeons use high-definition imaging technology and precision instruments, enabling the safest and most advanced surgical approaches. Minimally invasive surgical procedures use smaller incisions and typically lead to better outcomes, including:
- Quicker recovery and shorter hospital stays
- Reduced bleeding and postoperative pain
- Fewer and smaller scars
- Less risk of needing an ICU stay
- Faster return to normal activities
Modern diagnostic techniques for complex thoracic diseases
Advanced techniques enable us to get an accurate diagnosis and provide the most effective treatment, while surgical teams allow for integration of the most cutting-edge technology.
- Endobronchial ultrasound uses a tiny camera and sound waves to guide chest procedures
- Navigational bronchoscopy creates a 3D map of the lungs to help navigate airways to reach tumors or lesions
- Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery uses a video-capable scope to perform chest surgeries
Research-driven innovation
Our clinician-scientists are international leaders in developing new surgical techniques and therapies for thoracic disorders, including lung cancer. These methods combine radiation therapy and minimally invasive and robotic surgery to deliver more effective treatment. Patients also have access to active clinical trials that test the latest care methods.
Related conditions and treatments
We offer the most advanced surgical techniques available to treat a wide range of routine and complex thoracic conditions.
- GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
- Achalasia
- Pleural Effusion
- Chest and Lung Problems
- Collapsed Lung (Pneumothorax)
- Esophageal Cancer
- Gastroparesis
- Hiatal Hernia
- Interstitial Lung Disease
- Lung Cancer
- Lung Cancer Stages
- Lung Cancer Types
- Metastatic Lung Cancer
- Myasthenia Gravis
- Rib Fracture
- Small Cell Lung Cancer
- Small Cell vs. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Work-Related Lung Diseases
- Lung Cancer Nodule
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
- Clavicular Joints
- Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)
- Mesothelioma
- Chest Wall Mass
- Esophageal Cysts
- Paraesophageal Hernia
- Tracheoesophageal Fistula
- Tracheal Tumors
- Diaphragm Paralysis
- Lung Nodules
- Tracheal Stenosis
- Pectus Excavatum
- Rib Plating
- Esophageal Diverticulum
- Multifocal Ground Glass Opacity
- Mediastinoscopy
- Bronchoscopy
- Lung Biopsy
- CT-Guided Lung Biopsy
- Esophageal Dilation
- Esophagectomy
- Lung Surgery
- Lung Transplant
- Surgery for Lung Cancer
- Esophageal Stenting
- Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD)
- Photodynamic Therapy
- Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
- Pleurex
- Endobronchial Ultrasound
- Robotic Surgery
- Thymic Surgery
- Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)
- Uniportal Procedures
Specialized care near you
Access care across Mass General Brigham, with specialized services available at community hospitals and leading academic medical centers. No matter your disease or condition, our specialists are nearby and ready to help.
secondary
internal
View thoracic surgery locations
Contact the Thoracic Surgery Program
Contact a thoracic surgery location or specialist to learn about your care options. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
primary
internal
Find a specialist
Find a thoracic surgery specialist
secondary
internal
View locations
View thoracic surgery locations
tertiary
internal-arrow
International Patient Services
Contact information for international patients
Additional contacts
Phone
Brigham and Women's Hospital
New patient registration: 617-732-5922
Massachusetts General Hospital
New patient registration: 617-726-2100