Definition

The mediastinum is surrounded by the breastbone in front, the spine in back, and the lungs on each side. Mediastinal tumor resection removes tumors in this area of the chest cavity.

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Reasons for Procedure

Cancerous tumors must be removed to prevent local tissue damage and the spread of cancer. Without removal or treatment, the cancer could spread to other areas of the body. The cancer could also start to compress organs in the chest, such as the heart, lungs, esophagus, or spinal cord.

People who have this surgery often have a better prognosis than those who receive either radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Possible Complications

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, such as:

• Damage to the areas surrounding the tumor, including the heart, lungs, and spinal cord
• Fluid collecting between the lung tissue lining and the wall of the chest cavity
• Lung collapse
• Drainage, infection, or bleeding

Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications such as:

• Smoking
• Drinking
• Chronic diseases, such as diabetes or obesity

What to Expect

Call Your Doctor

It is important for you to monitor your recovery after you leave the hospital. Alert your doctor to any problems right away. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:

• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or any discharge from the incision site
• Pain that you cannot control with the medications you've been given
• Cough, difficulty breathing, or chest pain
• Persistent nausea and/or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Pain and/or swelling in your feet, calves, or legs
• New or worsening symptoms

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.