[Diagnosis and treatment of benign tumors and cysts of the mediastinum].

The experience of treatment of 253 cases of benign tumors and cysts of the mediastinum is summarized. Complex X-ray and endoscopic examination was used for diagnosis. Due to application of thoracoscopy, topical and morphologic diagnosis was improved. Surgery was the main method of treatment. Radical operations were carried out in 98.9% and in 6.3% they involved resection of the rib, lung, pericardium, the membranous part of the trachea and bronchus, esophageal diverticulum or removal of diaphragmatic hernia. The complicated and life-threatening nature of the procedure is mirrored in the postoperative lethality rate (1.57%) and pattern of complications and requires a strict observance of the suggested principles of surgery.