Stem-Branch: A Novel Method for Tracking the Anatomy During Thoracoscopic S9-10 Segmentectomy

Thoracoscopic S9-10 segmentectomies are the most technically challenging anatomic segmentectomies. Because the target vessels and bronchus are commonly variable and deeply located in the lung parenchyma, exposing and correctly identifying them through an interlobar fissure approach or a posterior approach is difficult. We describe a novel method to track the target segmental branches along the stem during single-direction thoracoscopic S9-10 segmentectomy through an inferior pulmonary ligament approach.