Dylewski Technique

Precision matters when surgery involves the chest, lungs, or major airways, which is the philosophy behind the Dylewski Technique. Developed by Mark Dylewski, MD, this robotic-assisted approach allows the medical team to perform complex thoracic procedures without spreading or cutting the ribs, helping to reduce trauma and support a smoother recovery. Learn more by booking an appointment at the Institute for Thoracic Surgery in Pinecrest, Florida. Call the office or use the online scheduling feature today to learn if this innovative technique is right for you.

What is the Dylewski Technique?

The Dylewski Technique is a robotic-assisted surgical approach developed by Dr. Mark Dylewski. Instead of the traditional method of spreading or cutting through the ribs to access the chest cavity, the technique uses small ports and robotic instrumentation to reach the lungs and esophagus. 

It's named after Dr. Dylewski, who pioneered the approach and has trained surgeons worldwide on how to perform it.

How does the Dylewski Technique work?

Rather than making one large incision and prying the ribs apart, Dr. Dylewski makes a few small incisions in the chest. Through these, he inserts a camera and robotic instruments controlled from a console just a few feet away. This approach offers advantages over traditional open surgery, such as

• A magnified, high-definition view of the surgical site
• Greater precision and range of motion than the human hand alone
• Ribs stay fully intact throughout the procedure
• Less trauma to the chest wall overall

Together, these benefits are what set the Dylewski Technique apart from conventional thoracic surgery.

What conditions can the Dylewski Technique treat?

This approach is versatile enough to handle a range of thoracic conditions, including:

• Lung cancer (including lobectomies)
• Esophageal procedures
• Mesothelioma
• Thymectomies
• Certain chest wall conditions

If you're facing a diagnosis that would typically call for open chest surgery, it's worth asking whether you're a candidate for this less invasive option instead.

What is recovery like after the Dylewski Technique?

Because the ribs aren't cut or spread apart, many patients find that recovery moves along faster than they expected. Pain levels are often lower in the days after surgery, and hospital stays tend to be shorter compared to open procedures. 

That said, recovery still looks different for everyone. It depends on your specific procedure, your overall health, and how your body responds. Dr. Dylewski and his team walk you through what to expect and check in regularly as you heal.

If you've been told you need thoracic surgery, book a consultation to find out whether the Dylewski Technique is right for you. Schedule your appointment by calling the office or using the online scheduler now.