Approach to thoracoscopic port placement

Multiple approaches (two-port, three-port) are described for the placement of thoracoscopic port incisions.^[1-4] An example of one three-port technique is illustrated. The "dissection" or "access" port is placed in the 4^th or 5^th intercostal space anteriorly since the intercostal spaces are wider in this area. The "camera" port is placed in the midaxillary line 8^th intercostal space, and the "retraction" port is placed in-line with the major fissure lateral to the insertion of the diaphragm to the chest wall. The thoracoscope can be placed in any of the port sites for additional viewing angles.