Dr. Li Hecheng (李鹤成) - Director of Thoracic Surgery at Ruijin Hospital Shanghai

Introduction

Dr. Li Hecheng (李鹤成) is the Director of the Department of Thoracic Surgery at Ruijin Hospital, affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and one of China's most accomplished and innovative thoracic surgeons. With over 20 years of specialized experience, Dr. Li is internationally recognized for his expertise in minimally invasive thoracic surgery, lung cancer surgery, esophageal cancer surgery, and complex mediastinal procedures. He is a leading pioneer of robotic thoracic surgery in China and has made landmark contributions to uniportal VATS (single-port thoracoscopic surgery), helping to bring cutting-edge minimally invasive techniques to patients across China. His commitment to surgical excellence, innovation, and multidisciplinary oncologic care has made Ruijin Hospital's Department of Thoracic Surgery one of Shanghai's premier destinations for thoracic surgical care, including for international patients.

Academic Distinctions & Leadership

• Director, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
• Professor of Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
• Chief Physician, Ruijin Hospital
• Vice Chairman, Thoracic Surgery Branch, Chinese Medical Association
• Member, International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC)
• Member, European Society of Thoracic Surgeons (ESTS)
• Member, Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS)
• Member, Asian Society for Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery (ASCVTS)
• Member, International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS)
• Editorial Board Member, multiple leading thoracic surgery journals
• Recipient, National Science and Technology Progress Award
• Recipient, Shanghai Science and Technology Award
• Recipient, Wu Jieping Medical Innovation Award

Specializations & Expertise

Lung Cancer Surgery

• Uniportal VATS (single-port thoracoscopic) lobectomy and segmentectomy
• Robotic-assisted lobectomy, segmentectomy, and pneumonectomy
• Anatomic segmentectomy for early-stage lung cancer and ground-glass opacities (GGO)
• Sleeve lobectomy and bronchoplastic procedures
• Extended resection involving chest wall, diaphragm, or pericardium
• Surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy or immunotherapy
• Re-resection for recurrent or second primary lung cancer
• Sub-lobar resection for small peripheral nodules

Esophageal Cancer Surgery

• Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) — thoracoscopic and laparoscopic
• Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (thoracoscopic/laparoscopic)
• McKeown three-field esophagectomy
• Robotic-assisted esophagectomy
• Esophageal reconstruction with gastric conduit or colon interposition
• Surgery after neoadjuvant chemoradiation
• Salvage esophagectomy for recurrent or refractory disease

Mediastinal Surgery

• Robotic and VATS thymectomy for thymoma and thymic carcinoma
• Thymectomy for myasthenia gravis
• Mediastinal germ cell tumor resection
• Mediastinal cyst excision (bronchogenic, pericardial, enteric)
• Neurogenic tumor resection
• Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome surgery

Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery

• Uniportal (single-port) VATS — all major thoracic procedures
• Robotic thoracic surgery (da Vinci Xi system)
• Three-port and two-port VATS
• Minimally invasive chest wall tumor resection and reconstruction
• VATS pleural procedures (decortication, pleurodesis, biopsy)
• Thoracoscopic sympathectomy for hyperhidrosis
• VATS bullectomy for spontaneous pneumothorax

Complex & Revisional Thoracic Surgery

• Completion pneumonectomy
• Chest wall resection and reconstruction (prosthetic and biological)
• Diaphragm resection and reconstruction
• Pericardial resection and reconstruction
• Superior sulcus (Pancoast) tumor surgery
• Pleural mesothelioma surgery

Clinical Excellence & Innovation

Dr. Li has performed thousands of thoracic surgeries throughout his distinguished career, with a particular reputation for technical mastery in minimally invasive approaches. He is one of China's foremost practitioners of uniportal VATS — the most advanced form of thoracoscopic surgery — and has been instrumental in spreading this technique across China through training and education.

Dr. Li has introduced and championed several landmark innovations in thoracic surgery:

• Uniportal VATS Pioneer in China: One of the earliest and most experienced uniportal VATS surgeons in China, performing complex lobectomies, segmentectomies, and esophagectomies through a single small incision, minimizing pain and accelerating recovery
• Robotic Thoracic Surgery Leadership: Established a comprehensive robotic thoracic surgery program at Ruijin Hospital, with extensive experience in robotic lobectomy, thymectomy, and esophagectomy
• Anatomic Segmentectomy Expertise: Developed refined techniques for complex anatomic segmentectomy, including intersegmental plane identification using inflation-deflation and near-infrared fluorescence guidance
• Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy: Pioneered fully thoracoscopic and robotic esophagectomy techniques at Ruijin Hospital, achieving outcomes comparable to open surgery with significantly reduced morbidity
• Fluorescence-Guided Surgery: Integrated near-infrared fluorescence imaging (ICG) for real-time visualization of intersegmental planes, lymph nodes, and tumor margins during VATS and robotic procedures
• ERAS for Thoracic Surgery: Implemented comprehensive enhanced recovery protocols that reduce hospital stay and improve patient outcomes after major thoracic surgery

Research & Academic Contributions

Dr. Li is an active and prolific researcher with numerous peer-reviewed publications in leading Chinese and international thoracic surgery and oncology journals. His research focuses on:

• Outcomes of uniportal VATS and robotic thoracic surgery
• Anatomic segmentectomy techniques and oncologic outcomes
• Minimally invasive esophagectomy outcomes and quality of life
• Neoadjuvant immunotherapy and surgery for lung and esophageal cancer
• Fluorescence-guided thoracic surgery
• Lung cancer screening and management of pulmonary nodules
• Perioperative management and ERAS in thoracic surgery

He has participated in multiple national research programs and clinical trials, and regularly presents his work at major international conferences including the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons (ESTS) Annual Meeting, the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Annual Meeting, and the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) World Conference.

Dr. Li is frequently invited to perform live surgery demonstrations and deliver lectures on uniportal VATS and robotic thoracic surgery at conferences and training centers across China and internationally.

Training & Education

As a professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Dr. Li is deeply committed to advancing thoracic surgical education. He supervises graduate students and residents, and his department serves as a national training base for minimally invasive thoracic surgery.

He leads hands-on training courses in uniportal VATS and robotic thoracic surgery, and his operative techniques have been widely adopted by thoracic surgery programs across China. His trainees are recognized for their proficiency in advanced minimally invasive thoracic techniques.

Hospital Affiliation

Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
197 Ruijin Er Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai 200025

Ruijin Hospital is one of Shanghai's most prestigious and historic academic medical centers, consistently ranked among China's top hospitals. The Department of Thoracic Surgery features:

• State-of-the-art robotic surgery systems (da Vinci Xi) dedicated to thoracic procedures
• Advanced uniportal and multi-port VATS operating suites
• Specialized thoracic surgery ICU with experienced intensivists
• Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation and staging facilities
• Advanced imaging (CT, PET-CT, MRI, EBUS)
• Multidisciplinary thoracic oncology tumor board with weekly case conferences
• Dedicated lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and mediastinal tumor clinics
• Pulmonary function laboratory and cardiopulmonary exercise testing
• Interventional pulmonology and bronchoscopy suite
• Radiation oncology and medical oncology integration
• Nutritional support and respiratory rehabilitation services
• International patient services with English-speaking coordinators

Patient Care Philosophy

• Patient-Centered Care: Every surgical plan is individualized based on tumor characteristics, pulmonary function, and patient goals
• Minimally Invasive First: Uniportal VATS and robotic approaches are prioritized to minimize surgical trauma, reduce pain, and accelerate recovery
• Lung Function Preservation: Anatomic segmentectomy and bronchoplastic techniques used to maximize remaining lung function
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: All complex cases reviewed by a dedicated tumor board integrating thoracic surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and pulmonology
• Evidence-Based Practice: Treatment decisions guided by the latest international guidelines and ongoing research
• Precision Surgery: Fluorescence-guided techniques for optimal tumor localization and margin assessment
• Transparent Communication: Clear, honest communication about diagnosis, surgical options, risks, and expected outcomes
• Quality of Life Focus: Emphasizes rapid recovery and optimal respiratory function after surgery

Why Choose Dr. Li Hecheng?

• Uniportal VATS Pioneer: One of China's foremost single-port thoracoscopic surgeons, offering the least invasive approach to major lung and esophageal surgery
• Robotic Thoracic Surgery Expertise: Comprehensive robotic program covering lung, esophageal, and mediastinal surgery
• Dual Expertise in Lung & Esophageal Cancer: Rare combination of mastery in both lung cancer and esophageal cancer minimally invasive surgery
• Fluorescence-Guided Precision: Uses near-infrared imaging for superior tumor localization and margin assessment
• Complex Case Experience: Handles the most challenging thoracic cases including extended resections, sleeve procedures, and salvage surgery
• Prestigious Academic Center: Ruijin Hospital is one of China's top-ranked hospitals with full multidisciplinary resources
• Cost-Effective Excellence: Thoracic surgery costs in Shanghai are typically 60-75% lower than in the US or Europe
• International Patient Experience: Experienced in coordinating care for patients from overseas

Conditions Treated

Lung Conditions

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) — stages I, II, III
• Small cell lung cancer (surgical candidates)
• Pulmonary carcinoid tumors
• Ground-glass opacity (GGO) nodules and early adenocarcinoma
• Pulmonary metastases (colorectal, renal, sarcoma, etc.)
• Pulmonary hamartoma and benign lung tumors
• Spontaneous pneumothorax
• Bronchiectasis (surgical cases)
• Pulmonary sequestration

Esophageal Conditions

• Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
• Esophageal adenocarcinoma
• Gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma
• Achalasia
• Esophageal diverticula
• Benign esophageal tumors (leiomyoma)
• Esophageal perforation

Mediastinal Conditions

• Thymoma (all stages)
• Thymic carcinoma
• Myasthenia gravis (thymectomy)
• Mediastinal germ cell tumors
• Mediastinal cysts
• Neurogenic tumors
• Mediastinal lymphoma (surgical biopsy)

Chest Wall & Pleural Conditions

• Chest wall tumors (primary and metastatic)
• Pleural mesothelioma
• Malignant pleural effusion
• Pleural empyema
• Pectus excavatum

International Patient Services

China Medical Concierge - Shanghai (CMCS) provides comprehensive support for international patients seeking thoracic surgery with Dr. Li Hecheng at Ruijin Hospital.

Pre-Treatment Support

• Medical Record Review: Our team works with Ruijin Hospital to review your CT scans, PET-CT, pathology, and pulmonary function tests to assess surgical options
• Virtual Consultation: Arrange a video consultation with Dr. Li's team to discuss your case and treatment plan
• Pre-operative Staging Workup: Coordination of comprehensive imaging, EBUS, and pulmonary function assessment
• Tumor Board Presentation: Your case can be presented at the multidisciplinary thoracic oncology tumor board
• Second Opinion: Expert second opinion on resectability, surgical approach (uniportal VATS vs. robotic vs. open), and extent of resection
• Cost Transparency: Detailed cost estimate including evaluation, surgery, hospitalization, and follow-up
• Visa Assistance: Guidance on obtaining medical visa and invitation letters
• Accommodation: Help finding suitable housing near Ruijin Hospital for patient and family

During Treatment

• Professional Medical Interpretation: Experienced interpreters for all medical interactions
• Hospital Admission Support: Assistance with registration, payment, and navigation
• Family Support: Accommodation and support for accompanying family members
• Surgical Coordination: Communication with family during surgery
• ICU & Ward Support: Daily updates and interpretation during hospital stay
• Post-operative Care: Comprehensive support during recovery including chest drain management and respiratory rehabilitation
• Medication Management: Assistance with post-operative medications and pain management
• 24/7 Emergency Support: Round-the-clock assistance throughout your stay

Post-Treatment Care

• Discharge Planning: Coordination of post-discharge care and monitoring
• Medical Report Translation: Complete translation of surgical reports, pathology, and discharge summaries
• Adjuvant Therapy Coordination: Assistance with arranging adjuvant chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy if recommended
• Follow-up Coordination: Arrange post-operative clinic visits and CT surveillance
• Long-term Monitoring Plan: Clear guidance on ongoing surveillance schedule
• Complication Management: Support for any post-operative complications
• Telemedicine Follow-up: Virtual consultations for ongoing care after returning home
• Coordination with Home Physicians: Communication with your local oncologist or pulmonologist
• Lifelong Support: Ongoing assistance throughout your cancer journey

Schedule Your Consultation

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer, esophageal cancer, a mediastinal tumor, or another thoracic condition requiring surgery, Dr. Li Hecheng at Ruijin Hospital offers world-class minimally invasive and open thoracic surgical expertise with outcomes that rival the best centers globally, at a fraction of Western costs.

Contact China Medical Concierge - Shanghai today to:

• Request a medical record review to assess surgical options
• Schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Li's thoracic surgery team
• Have your case presented at the multidisciplinary thoracic oncology tumor board
• Receive a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate
• Start your journey toward expert minimally invasive thoracic surgery in Shanghai

Bridging international patients with Shanghai's finest thoracic surgeons — because precision, innovation, and minimal invasiveness define the future of thoracic surgery.