[Indications and longterm results of surgery in mediastinal neoplasms (author's transl)].

Most important for the diagnosis of mediastinal tumors are X-ray methods (incl. tomography and pneumomediastinum). Early operation is important for all kinds of tumors. The lateral thoracotomy (Perelman) is recommended. Longterm results are good with benign tumors. This can not be said for malignancies because of their usually late discovery.