Target-Controlled Infusion (TCI) vs Inhalational Anesthesia in Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)

Overview

This study is designed as a prospective observational cohort to evaluate recovery after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). In our clinic, anesthesia for VATS is commonly provided either with target-controlled infusion (TCI) or with inhalational agents, depending on the routine practice of the anesthesiologist. No randomization or additional intervention will be performed. During the study period, patients who receive either method as part of standard care will be followed, and perioperative and postoperative data will be recorded. Awakening time, extubation time, Aldrete score progression, pain levels, and early postoperative complications will be compared between the two groups. The aim is to better understand how these widely used anesthesia techniques may influence recovery in VATS patients and to support future clinical decision-making.

This study is planned as a prospective observational cohort carried out in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). In routine practice at our institution, anesthesia for these operations is provided either with target-controlled infusion (TCI)-based total intravenous anesthesia or with inhalational agents. The study will not change the type of anesthesia given to any patient. The method used will depend entirely on the attending anesthesiologist's usual clinical choice. Patients receiving either technique during the study period will be followed, and perioperative variables will be documented. These include basic demographic data, intraoperative hemodynamic changes, duration of anesthesia, administered drug doses, and oxygenation parameters. Postoperative recovery will be assessed mainly through awakening and extubation times, Aldrete scores, sedation assessments, pain scores, and early complications such as nausea and vomiting. The purpose of this observational design is to compare the two commonly used anesthesia approaches as they are applied in real clinical practice. By examining postoperative recovery patterns and any differences between groups, the study aims to provide practical information that may help guide anesthesia selection in VATS procedures. No additional risk or intervention will be introduced, and all patient data will be collected in accordance with routine clinical monitoring.