The Thoracic and Endocrine Surgery Division treats diseases that affect the thoracic nerves, which include:
- The vagus nerve, which has an important role in autonomic regulation (digestion, heart rate).
- The recurrent nerve, which controls the vocal cords.
- The phrenic nerve, which innervates the diaphragm and produces the main respiratory movements.
- The intercostal nerves, which innervate most of the chest wall.
The sympathetic nervous system manages the activity of the internal organs and the automatic functions of the body, such as breathing. It plays a role in the cardiovascular system, digestion, perspiration, etc. The nerves of the sympathetic system can be a source of diseases that are treated by surgery.