Mediastinal Tumor ResectionPronunciation: Mee-dee-a-STYE-nul
by
Diana Kohnle DefinitionThe 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.
Reasons for ProcedureCancerous 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 ComplicationsProblems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, such as:
Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications such as: What to ExpectPrior to ProcedureBefore the surgery, your doctor may take images of structures inside your body using: Leading up to the surgery:
AnesthesiaGeneral anesthesia —you will be asleep during the procedure Description of the ProcedureTo remove the tumor, the doctor will make one large, central incision in the chest, an incision between the ribs, or several small incisions. If several small incisions are made, a camera will be inserted into one incision. The camera will allow the doctor to view the area via monitor. Through the other incisions, surgical tools will be inserted. Tubes may be inserted into your chest. These tubes will help to drain fluid and air from the chest cavity. The incisions will be closed with staples or stitches. Immediately After ProcedureThe breathing tube will be removed. You will be monitored closely for any complications from the procedure. How Long Will It Take?About 1-4 hours depending on the type of surgery How Much Will It Hurt?Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications. Average Hospital StayThis surgery is done in a hospital setting. The usual length of stay is 4 days. Your doctor may choose to keep you longer if complications arise. Post-procedure CareAt the HospitalYou will be given a clear liquid diet. You will be instructed to practice deep breathing and coughing to help your lungs recover. Any chest tubes will be removed before you go home. When you are home:
After you recover from surgery, you may need chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Preventing InfectionDuring your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection, such as:
There are also steps you can take to reduce your chance of infection, such as:
Call Your DoctorIt 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:
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away. RESOURCES:American Cancer Society http://www.cancer.org National Cancer Institute http://www.cancer.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES:BC Cancer Agency http://www.bccancer.bc.ca Canadian Cancer Society http://www.cancer.ca References:Flores RM. Surgical management of primary mediastinal germ cell tumors. The Cardiothoracic Surgery Network website. Available at:
https://www.ctsnet.org/article/surgical-management-primary-mediastinal-germ-cell-tumors. Published January 25, 2010. Accessed March 6, 2018. Germ cell tumors. Brigham and Women's Hospital website. Available at: https://www.brighamandwomens.org/lung-center/diseases-and-conditions/germ-cell-tumors. Accessed March 6, 2018. Liu HP, Yim AP, et al. Thorascopic removal of intrathoracic neurogenic tumors: a combined Chinese experience.
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Last reviewed March 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Alan Drabkin, MD Last Updated: 1/23/2014 |
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