[Thymectomy in myasthenia gravis (author's transl)].

Experiences with 13 thymectomies for myasthenia gravis between 1966-1973 are reported. Incomplete median sternotomy was preferred. Myasthenic or cholinergic respiratory failure was a major complication after surgery. Daily measurements of VC were useful indicators to dedect beginning failures. Results depend on duration of the disease and histological type of lesion. Recommendation of thymectomy at an early stage of the disease is justified.