Imaged thoracic resection of a huge mediastinal tumor--role of extended incision and the use of conventional instruments.

Intrathoracic lesions are usually removed through conventional thoracotomy. The long incision and the spreading of the rib usually results in much pain and interference of chest wall mechanics. Today, with the development of imaged thoracic surgery (combination of thoracoscope and video optics), major procedures can be performed through small incisions. However, indications are greatly limited due to lack of suitable instrumentation and restricted space of the trocar channel especially when a huge intrathoracic tumor is encountered. In this selected report, we demonstrate a successful procedure using extended incision and conventional instruments in imaged resection of a huge cystic intrathoracic tumor. The procedure offers the benefit of safe, easy and fast manipulation. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged on the fourth postoperative day.