Thoracic Surgery Thesis Topics

Thoracic Surgery Thesis Topics

Thoracic Surgery focuses on operative management of lung, esophagus, mediastinum, pleura, airway and chest wall, using open, video-assisted and robotic approaches. This page lists 100 detailed Thoracic Surgery thesis topics tailored for M.Ch Thoracic Surgery residents in India and trainees in GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain), including Arab Board thoracic surgery programmes.

The content is optimised for searches such as thoracic surgery thesis topics, MCh thoracic surgery dissertation topics India, lung surgery research topics, VATS and RATS thoracic surgery projects, GCC thoracic surgery research ideas, Arab Board thoracic surgery thesis topics. Most titles are framed as comparative clinical studies, observational cohorts and cross sectional analyses that are realistically feasible in thoracic surgery units in India and the GCC.

1. Lung Resection Surgery (Benign and Malignant)

Comparative study of lobectomy versus segmentectomy for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer in suitable candidates. Evaluates oncologic adequacy, pulmonary function preservation, postoperative complications and short-term survival.
Observational study of clinical profile and outcomes of lung resections performed for benign destructive lung disease. Describes indications such as bronchiectasis and destroyed lung, perioperative morbidity and symptom relief.
Cross sectional analysis of risk factors for postoperative pulmonary complications after major lung resections. Assesses role of smoking, COPD, preoperative spirometry and nutritional status in predicting complications.
Comparative study of pneumonectomy versus lung-sparing resections in locally advanced lung cancer where both strategies are feasible. Analyses perioperative mortality, long-term dyspnoea and survival differences.
Observational study of outcomes of completion lobectomy following previous lung resection for malignancy or benign disease. Evaluates technical challenges, complication profile and oncologic results.
Cross sectional analysis of frozen section margin assessment in lung cancer resections. Correlates intraoperative assessment with final pathology and local recurrence.
Comparative study of sublobar resection versus lobectomy in high-risk patients with small peripheral lung nodules. Assesses recurrence patterns, survival and postoperative pulmonary function.
Observational study of lung resections performed for metastatic disease to the lung. Describes primary tumour sites, number of nodules, disease-free interval and outcomes after metastasectomy.
Cross sectional analysis of preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing and its utility in predicting outcomes after major lung resections. Evaluates correlation between exercise capacity, postoperative complications and length of stay.
Observational study of quality-of-life after lung resection surgery using validated thoracic surgery QOL scales. Assesses breathlessness, activity limitation and return to work in Indian and GCC settings.

2. Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery (VATS and RATS)

Comparative study of video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy versus open lobectomy for early-stage lung cancer. Evaluates operative time, conversion rate, complications, lymph node yield and hospital stay.
Observational study of the learning curve for VATS lobectomy among thoracic surgery trainees. Analyses changes in operative duration, blood loss and complication rates over consecutive cases.
Cross sectional analysis of indications and outcomes of VATS procedures other than lobectomy (bullectomy, sympathectomy, wedge resection). Reviews case-mix, success rates, postoperative pain and length of stay.
Comparative study of robotic-assisted thoracic surgery versus VATS for lung resections where both technologies are available. Assesses lymph node dissection quality, ergonomic advantages, cost and patient outcomes.
Observational study of conversion to open thoracotomy during minimally invasive lung resections. Documents reasons for conversion, risk factors and impact on postoperative recovery.
Cross sectional analysis of surgeon ergonomics and musculoskeletal discomfort in VATS versus open thoracic procedures. Uses validated ergonomics questionnaires and correlates with case volume and duration.
Comparative study of postoperative pain and pulmonary function after VATS versus open lobectomy. Evaluates analgesic requirements, spirometry at follow-up and quality-of-life.
Observational study of day-case or short-stay VATS procedures in a thoracic surgery unit. Reviews selection criteria, complications after discharge and readmission rates.
Cross sectional analysis of cost-effectiveness of VATS versus open thoracic surgery in Indian and GCC hospitals. Considers operative costs, consumables, hospital stay and time to return to work.
Observational study of patient satisfaction and scar acceptance after minimally invasive thoracic surgery. Uses patient-reported cosmetic scores and overall satisfaction measures.

3. Mediastinal Tumours and Thoracic Masses

Observational study of anterior mediastinal masses operated in a thoracic surgery unit. Describes histological spectrum, myasthenia gravis association in thymomas and postoperative outcomes.
Comparative study of VATS versus open thymectomy in myasthenia gravis patients with thymoma or thymic hyperplasia. Evaluates operative morbidity, hospital stay and neurological improvement.
Cross sectional analysis of radiological–pathological correlation in mediastinal tumours. Reviews accuracy of CT/MRI in predicting histology and resectability.
Observational study of posterior mediastinal neurogenic tumours and outcomes after surgical excision. Assesses neurological deficits, completeness of excision and recurrence.
Comparative study of VATS versus thoracotomy approaches for mediastinal cysts and benign tumours where both are practised. Evaluates operative difficulty, complications and postoperative recovery.
Cross sectional analysis of incidental mediastinal masses detected on imaging and their final diagnosis. Describes size, location, indications for surgery and proportion of malignant lesions.
Observational study of superior vena cava syndrome caused by thoracic masses and role of surgical intervention. Reviews symptom relief, perioperative risk and need for adjunctive therapy.
Comparative study of transcervical versus transthoracic approaches for selected anterior mediastinal lesions. Assesses adequacy of exposure, completeness of resection and complications.
Cross sectional analysis of intraoperative and postoperative complications in mediastinal tumour resections. Includes bleeding, airway events, phrenic nerve palsy and prolonged ventilation.
Observational study of long-term survival and quality-of-life after thymoma resection. Evaluates staging, adjuvant therapy use and autoimmune disease control.

4. Airway Surgery and Tracheal Procedures

Observational study of benign tracheal stenosis managed surgically in a thoracic surgery unit. Describes etiologies such as post-intubation and post-tracheostomy stenosis, extent of narrowing and surgical techniques used.
Comparative study of tracheal resection and anastomosis versus tracheal dilation/stenting for benign tracheal stenosis. Evaluates symptom relief, restenosis rates, complications and need for re-intervention.
Cross sectional analysis of preoperative imaging and bronchoscopic assessment in planning airway reconstructive surgery. Correlates imaging findings with intraoperative anatomy and surgical approach.
Observational study of surgical management of primary tracheal tumours. Reviews histology, extent of resection, airway reconstruction and oncologic outcome.
Comparative study of different tracheostomy techniques (open versus percutaneous) in thoracic and general ICU patients. Assesses complications, timing, decannulation success and scar outcomes.
Cross sectional analysis of airway trauma cases requiring surgical intervention. Includes penetrating and blunt injuries, patterns of airway disruption and postoperative outcomes.
Observational study of paediatric airway surgeries managed by thoracic surgery teams in collaboration with paediatric specialists. Describes indications, technical challenges and perioperative complications.
Comparative study of surgical versus endoscopic management strategies in central airway obstruction due to malignancy. Evaluates symptom control, stent-related issues and survival.
Cross sectional analysis of postoperative airway complications after major thoracic surgery. Reviews atelectasis, bronchospasm, mucus plugging and the need for bronchoscopy.
Observational study of long-term functional outcomes and quality-of-life after tracheal reconstructive surgery. Uses validated dyspnoea and QOL scales to assess breathing and voice.

5. Esophageal Surgery (Thoracic Component)

Comparative study of transthoracic versus transhiatal esophagectomy for carcinoma esophagus where both are practiced. Evaluates lymph node yield, respiratory complications, anastomotic leak and early survival.
Observational study of minimally invasive esophagectomy outcomes in a thoracic surgical oncology unit. Assesses operative time, conversion rates, postoperative recovery and complications.
Cross sectional analysis of anastomotic leak after esophagectomy and associated risk factors. Includes location of anastomosis, conduit type, nutritional status and operative details.
Comparative study of cervical versus intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis after esophagectomy. Reviews leak rate, stricture formation, reflux symptoms and quality-of-life.
Observational study of benign esophageal diseases requiring thoracic surgical intervention. Describes achalasia, strictures, diverticula and outcomes after surgery.
Cross sectional analysis of postoperative pulmonary complications after esophagectomy and their influence on ICU stay. Evaluates pneumonia, ARDS, need for prolonged ventilation and associated predictors.
Comparative study of hybrid minimally invasive esophagectomy versus totally minimally invasive esophagectomy. Assesses feasibility, complication rates and early oncologic outcomes.
Observational study of quality-of-life and swallowing function after curative esophagectomy. Uses disease-specific QOL tools to measure dysphagia, reflux and nutritional status.
Cross sectional analysis of conduit-related complications after esophagectomy (stricture, redundancy, ischemia). Reviews incidence, management strategies and functional impact.
Observational study of long-term survival and recurrence patterns after surgery for carcinoma esophagus in Indian and GCC populations. Evaluates stage, neoadjuvant therapy and follow-up protocol adherence.

6. Pleural Diseases and Thoracoscopy

Observational study of empyema thoracis patients undergoing decortication in a thoracic surgery unit. Describes stages of empyema at presentation, operative findings, lung expansion and postoperative improvement.
Comparative study of VATS decortication versus open thoracotomy decortication for chronic empyema. Evaluates operative time, postoperative pain, complications and hospital stay.
Cross sectional analysis of recurrent pneumothorax and outcomes after surgical pleurodesis. Reviews underlying lung pathology, recurrence rates and pulmonary function.
Observational study of malignant pleural effusion and role of surgical interventions (VATS pleurodesis, pleurectomy). Assesses symptom relief, duration of control and quality-of-life.
Comparative study of talc pleurodesis via VATS versus bedside chemical pleurodesis where both methods are used. Evaluates effectiveness, complications and length of stay.
Cross sectional analysis of tuberculous pleural disease requiring surgical intervention. Describes indications for decortication, histology and postoperative outcomes.
Observational study of thoracoscopic lung and pleural biopsies in undiagnosed pleural and parenchymal disease. Evaluates diagnostic yield, complications and influence on management.
Comparative study of uniportal VATS versus multiportal VATS for pleural procedures where both are practised. Assesses pain, cosmesis and operative feasibility.
Cross sectional analysis of complications related to indwelling pleural catheters in malignant effusions. Reviews infection, blockage, loculation and management strategies.
Observational study of quality-of-life after surgical treatment of chronic pleural disease. Uses QOL scores to assess dyspnoea, physical activity and return to work.

7. Thoracic Trauma and Emergency Thoracic Surgery

Observational study of patterns of chest trauma presenting to a tertiary care thoracic surgery centre. Describes mechanisms, associated injuries, operative procedures and mortality.
Comparative study of surgical rib fixation versus conservative management in flail chest where both options are available. Evaluates ventilator days, pneumonia incidence, ICU stay and functional recovery.
Cross sectional analysis of indications for emergency thoracotomy in thoracic trauma. Reviews haemodynamic status, intraoperative findings and survival outcomes.
Observational study of penetrating chest injuries requiring thoracic surgical intervention in an Indian/GCC setting. Documents organ injuries, operative strategies and postoperative complications.
Comparative study of tube thoracostomy alone versus surgical intervention in massive haemothorax cases. Assesses ongoing blood loss, transfusion requirement and outcomes.
Cross sectional analysis of delayed presentation of chest trauma and its impact on morbidity and mortality. Evaluates reasons for delay, diagnosis of missed injuries and outcomes after surgery.
Observational study of diaphragmatic injuries diagnosed and treated surgically in thoracoabdominal trauma. Reviews mechanisms, associated injuries, operative approach and recurrence.
Comparative study of VATS versus open exploration in haemodynamically stable chest trauma patients with retained haemothorax. Evaluates evacuation completeness, pain and hospital stay.
Cross sectional analysis of postoperative ICU utilisation and outcomes in patients undergoing emergency thoracic surgery. Assesses ventilator requirement, organ support and predictors of mortality.
Observational study of long-term functional outcome and quality-of-life in survivors of major chest trauma. Uses thoracic trauma-specific QOL tools to assess respiratory and physical function.

8. Thoracic Oncology (Multimodal Management)

Observational study of non-small cell lung cancer patients undergoing curative-intent surgery in an Indian/GCC thoracic oncology unit. Analyses stage distribution, neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy use and early survival.
Comparative study of outcomes in elderly versus non-elderly patients undergoing lung cancer surgery. Evaluates perioperative morbidity, mortality, ICU utilisation and short-term oncologic outcomes.
Cross sectional analysis of nodal dissection patterns and nodal yield in lung cancer resections. Correlates extent of lymphadenectomy with staging accuracy and complication rates.
Observational study of multimodal management of superior sulcus (Pancoast) tumours. Reviews role of chemoradiotherapy, surgical approaches and local control.
Comparative study of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery versus upfront surgery in selected locally advanced lung cancers. Evaluates downstaging, resection margins and survival trends.
Cross sectional analysis of postoperative recurrence patterns after curative surgery for lung cancer. Identifies common sites of recurrence, time to recurrence and surveillance practices.
Observational study of thymic malignancies managed with multimodal therapy including surgery. Describes stage, resection status, adjuvant therapy and survival.
Comparative study of VATS versus open approaches in lung cancer resections in terms of oncologic outcomes. Assesses lymph node harvest, margin status and early recurrence.
Cross sectional analysis of delays in initiation of adjuvant therapy after thoracic oncologic surgery. Reviews causes for delay and impact on early disease outcomes.
Observational study of quality-of-life in lung cancer patients after surgery compared with those treated with non-surgical modalities. Uses validated lung cancer QOL questionnaires to compare symptom burden and functional status.

9. Thoracic Infections and Tuberculosis

Observational study of pulmonary and pleural tuberculosis cases requiring thoracic surgical intervention. Describes indications such as destroyed lung, bronchopleural fistula and chronic empyema, along with outcomes.
Comparative study of surgical versus non-surgical management in destroyed lung due to tuberculosis where both approaches are used. Evaluates symptom relief, infection control and quality-of-life.
Cross sectional analysis of bronchopleural fistula following pulmonary tuberculosis and post-tubercular interventions. Reviews risk factors, surgical techniques and closure success rates.
Observational study of fungal lung infections (aspergilloma and others) managed surgically in a thoracic surgery unit. Assesses haemoptysis control, complications and recurrence.
Comparative study of open versus thoracoscopic approaches for debridement and decortication in chronic infective pleural disease. Evaluates operative outcomes, hospital stay and lung expansion.
Cross sectional analysis of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis cases needing thoracic surgery. Describes indications, perioperative challenges and postoperative complications.
Observational study of postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing lung resection for infectious indications versus malignant indications. Compares complication patterns, ICU requirement and length of stay.
Comparative study of surgical intervention versus bronchoscopic procedures in management of massive haemoptysis due to infective lung disease. Evaluates immediate control, recurrence and mortality.
Cross sectional analysis of quality-of-life in patients after surgery for chronic infective thoracic disease. Uses QOL instruments to assess breathlessness, fatigue and ability to work.
Observational study of long-term outcomes of thoracic surgery for tuberculosis-related sequelae in Indian and GCC populations. Reviews recurrence of infection, functional improvement and survival.

10. Perioperative Outcomes, ICU Care and Enhanced Recovery in Thoracic Surgery

Comparative study of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols versus conventional perioperative care in elective thoracic surgery. Evaluates pain scores, time to mobilisation, length of stay and readmission rates.
Observational study of postoperative analgesia techniques in thoracic surgery and their impact on pulmonary complications. Compares thoracic epidural, paravertebral block and systemic analgesia in terms of pain control and respiratory function.
Cross sectional analysis of postoperative atrial fibrillation after thoracic surgery and associated risk factors. Reviews age, type of procedure, fluid balance and pre-existing cardiac disease.
Observational study of ICU utilisation and outcomes after elective versus emergency thoracic surgery. Assesses duration of mechanical ventilation, organ support and ICU mortality.
Comparative study of early versus delayed chest drain removal after lung resection where both protocols exist. Evaluates duration of air leak, pneumothorax incidence and patient comfort.
Cross sectional analysis of unplanned readmissions within 30 days of discharge after thoracic surgery. Identifies common causes such as effusions, pain, wound issues and respiratory problems.
Observational study of preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation and its effect on outcomes in high-risk thoracic surgery patients. Assesses exercise tolerance, postoperative complications and length of stay.
Comparative study of different chest physiotherapy regimens in the immediate postoperative period after thoracic surgery. Evaluates sputum clearance, atelectasis incidence and need for bronchoscopy.
Cross sectional analysis of nutritional assessment and optimisation in patients scheduled for major thoracic surgery. Correlates nutritional indices with postoperative infection and wound healing.
Observational study of long-term health-related quality-of-life in patients after major thoracic surgery. Uses validated QOL tools to assess physical, emotional and social domains in Indian and GCC patients.
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