We developed a new minimally invasive thoracoscopic technique of extended thymectomy
for myasthenia gravis by combining a subxiphoid incision with dual costal margin incisions.
In our experience of 31 consecutive cases, this procedure provides a good operative
view in the neck region and makes verification of the bilateral phrenic nerves easy.
All the patients recovered smoothly with less trauma, less bleeding, less complication,
and good cosmetic results. This modified transsubxiphoid approach is a satisfactory
procedure for performing extended thymectomy in patients with myasthenia gravis.
Keywords
mediastinal - minimally invasive thoracoscopic technique - thoracoscopic/VATS - mediastinum
