The Thoracic Surgery Clinic at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo (UCCK) is transforming into a modern surgical center, where innovation is combined with dedication to patient care. Equipped with advanced technology, modern surgical methods, and a specialized medical team, this clinic is setting new standards in the treatment of chest and lung diseases in Kosovo.

Since last year, three new procedures have been introduced in thoracic surgery: PECTUS correction, Sentinel-Node surgery, and rib fixation for various trauma cases, along with investments in a new VATS system.

The majority of patients are treated for breast cancer and other breast-related conditions. From January to June alone, a total of 329 breast surgeries have been performed.

The Director of Thoracic Surgery at UCCK, Dr. Nazmi Kolgeci, told KosovaPress about the procedures they are performing.

“In Thoracic Surgery, the majority of our patients suffer from breast cancer and other breast-related conditions. We’ve performed 329 breast interventions in total… We’ve done around 11 thyroid surgeries and seven PECTUS operations. Last year, we began performing these procedures for the first time, which means that we have achieved that the Government of Kosovo does not need to provide money from the Kosovo Budget for patients to be treated abroad”, Kolgeci said.

With the Sentinel-Node surgery, around 40 patients have been able to preserve both their breast and lymph nodes. According to Kolgeci, this procedure is currently performed only at UCCK and in Greece.

“This year, we also started performing Sentinel-Node surgery. The Sentinel-Node procedure is used in breast cancer treatment and works as a tracer for cancer-infiltrated lymph nodes. With this method, in some cases, we are able to preserve both the breast and the lymph nodes. These surgical interventions are a significant achievement, especially since, based on our information, they are only performed in Greece and at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo. Since we began using this method last year, we have performed it on around thirty-five to forty patients… Last year, we also introduced another surgical intervention, rib fixation in various trauma cases,” he explained.

Kolgeci also stated that there have been investments in medical equipment, particularly in PECTUS and a new VATS system—state-of-the-art technology that uses cameras to operate within the thoracic cavity.

He also mentioned that investments have been made in the operating rooms, with a second operating room awaiting completion with essential components like an operating table and lighting.

“In recent years, there have been investments in medical equipment, including for PECTUS and the new VATS system. We previously had a VATS system—equipment that allows operations in the thoracic cavity using cameras—and the system we now have is highly modern, possibly among the latest in the field. Investments have also been made in the operating rooms. We are currently awaiting the completion of the second operating room, while the room itself has been fully renovated; it still lacks additional equipment such as the operating table, lighting, and other necessary components. This is expected to be completed soon,” said Kolgeci.

As for the surgical waiting list, Kolgeci said that it remains relatively short, only as long as is necessary for the patient to prepare with tests and medical examinations.

“The waiting list for breast cancer, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, or any malignant tumor in the thoracic region is very short, just enough time for the patient to complete preoperative tests and preparations. But this list, the current waiting period is around three to five weeks, which is the time needed for the patient to undergo analyses and other required examinations,” he said.

The most complex procedure performed in Thoracic Surgery is lung resection. /A. Shala/