Thoracic Surgery in Romania

Thoracic surgery is the branch of medicine that focuses on the surgical treatment of diseases affecting organs inside the thorax (chest), including the lungs, trachea, and esophagus. Physicians who specialize in this field are called thoracic surgeons. As well as performing surgery, they also diagnose and treat diseases of the chest organs. However, thoracic surgeons generally do not perform surgery for conditions affecting the heart and the major vessels in the chest as these operations are performed by cardiac surgeons. Some of the most common diseases that thoracic surgeons can diagnose and treat are as follows:

• Lung cancer
• Benign diseases and tumors of the lung
• Emphysema
• Benign esophageal diseases, including benign tumors, strictures, and achalasia
• Esophageal cancer
• Gastroesophageal reflux
• Mediastinal tumors and diseases
• Pleural diseases
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Mesothelioma
• Chest wall tumors
• Hyperhidrosis
• Diaphragm paralysis

Thoracic surgeons are trained and qualified to perform a wide range of surgical procedures, including:

• Airway reconstruction
• Carinal reconstruction
• Chest reconstruction
• Bleb resection
• Chest wall resection
• Tracheal resection
• Bronchoscopy
• Collis-Belsey fundoplication
• Esophagectomy
• Lung volume reduction surgery
• Lung transplant
• Hiatal hernia repair
• Lung cancer screening
• Mediastinotomy
• Mediastinoscopy
• Pneumectomy
• Tracheostomy
• Thoracotomy
• Tracheal stenting
• Pleurectomy
• Lobectomy
• Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM)
• Pectus excavatum surgery
• Nuss procedure
• Nissen fundoplication
• Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy
• Diaphragmatic hernia repair.

These surgical procedures can be performed with either an open surgical procedure (called thoracotomy) or minimally invasive techniques. Thoracotomy may be performed when it is necessary to see large portions of the inner chest cavity or the lung. 

How Long Should I Stay in Romania?

Since most thoracic surgeries are major, it is generally advisable that you stay in Romania for about six weeks before you travel home to avoid complications. In certain cases, however, you may be allowed to go home within 14 days. During your stay, you may need to attend follow-up checkups where your surgeon monitors your healing and will remove your surgical stitches, if necessary. 

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

The total recovery time after thoracic surgery can take between six to twelve weeks, depending on the type of surgery you have. However, you should be able to return to some of your normal routines, such as housework or work (if your job is not physically demanding), within two to six weeks following your surgery. Your medical team will be able to advise you on the likely length of recovery for your specific surgery.

What Aftercare is Required?

Your surgical team will give you instructions on how to care for yourself at home. The instructions may include exercises to help your breathing and posture, ways to monitor infections, and how to care for your wounds. You may need to change your lifestyle after surgery, such as quit smoking (if you smoke), eat a well-balanced diet, and exercise regularly. You may need to attend regular checkups, but you can do the checkups at home with your local doctor. 

What's the Success Rate?

Thoracic surgery is always evolving and advancing. With continuous research, the thoracic surgeon now has a better and broader understanding of the organs inside the thorax. They can also use new techniques and technology to perform the surgery. Today, much of thoracic surgery is done minimally invasively by using small incisions, a thin camera, and high definition monitors (video-assisted thoracic surgery) or with using a machine (robot-assisted thoracic surgery). These technological advances have increased the availability, safety, and success rate of thoracic surgery. 

Are there Alternatives?

If your doctor decided that you need surgery to treat your condition, there is no other alternative than seeing a thoracic surgeon. However, if you do not want to undergo surgery, it is best that you consult your doctor about an alternative.

Thoracic Surgery in and around Romania

Introduction

Situated at the crossroads of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe, Romania is a country of contrasts. From its medieval towns and castles, nature, and wildlife, to its rich cultural heritage and amazing food, this country continues to amaze its visitors. In recent years, Romania has become a flourishing medical tourism destination. Due to its low prices, well-trained medical staff, highly skilled doctors, and amazing medical centers, the country attracts an ever-increasing number of international medical tourists. Dental work is the number one reason medical tourists travel to this country, closely followed by cosmetic surgeries. Most medical tourists come from other European countries, such as the UK, Germany, other Western European countries, and the US.

Popular Cities and Regions in Romania

Almost every city in Romania has its fair share of amazing tourist attractions and skilled specialists. The most popular one is the capital of the country, Bucharest. This dynamic city boasts excellent museums, trendy cafes, and beautiful parks. Tourists usually flock to the Palace of Parliament, the Statue of Emperor Trajan, Cişmigiu Garden, the Romanian Athenaeum, and the Museum of the Romanian Peasant. Besides Bucharest, one of the most popular cities in the country is Brasov which is located in Transylvania; tourists usually come to this city as their base for trips to “Dracula’s castle.” The city is filled with charming medieval streets, great hiking spots, and a beautiful historic center. The second-largest city in Romania, Cluj-Napoca, is also famous for its bohemian cafes, amazing medical centers, and music festivals. 

Transport in Romania

Henri Coandă International Airport is the busiest airport in Romania. It serves flights to various major cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Getting around Romania with domestic flights is fast, but can be expensive. The most common way to travel is by bus and maxi taxi (minibus), which reaches even the smallest towns. 

Visas in Romania

While Romania is not yet part of the Schengen Area, the country’s visa policy is based on the Schengen acquis. Therefore, citizens of 62 countries, including the US and Australia, can visit and stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens of other countries will need a visa to enter. Those who already have a Schengen visa may enter the country.

Weather in Romania

Spring from March to May has fairly mild temperatures and pleasant weather. Summer, starting from June to August, is usually dry, sunny and sweltering. Autumn comes in September and ends in November. It brings enjoyable temperatures, but it is also the rainy season in the country. Winter, from December to February, can get quite cold and harsh with frequent snowfall. 

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The currency is the Romanian leu (RON). 1 USD is approx. 4.7 RON.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs can be found in major cities and smaller towns. Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and hotels. Tipping is expected in restaurants, hotels, etc. 
3. Local Language: There are several spoken languages in Romania. However, Romanian is the most spoken language. English is also spoken by around 31% of the population.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Romania is a secular state with no state religion. However, Christianity is the biggest religion. Islam, Paganism, and other religions are also present.
5. Public Holidays: New Year’s Day, Descent of the Holy Spirit, National Day, and Christmas Day are some of the most celebrated public holidays.