Thoracoscopic enucleation of leiomyoma of the oesophagus

Thoracoscopic enucleation of an esophageal leiomyoma with balloon dilator assistance

In consideration of the fact that procedures performed thoracoscopically cause less operative trauma and postoperative pain than those performed through an open thoracotomy, we believe that thoracoscopy should replace thoracotomy for the extraluminal transthoracic resection of benign esophageal tumors. We describe herein a new videothoracoscopic technique for performing the enucleation of an esophageal leiomyoma with balloon dilator assistance. The use of the balloon dilator facilitates separation of the tumor from both the mucosal and muscular layers of the esophagus, and may help to prevent perforation.

Thoracoscopic excision of bronchogenic cyst of the esophagus

Bronchogenic cyst of the esophagus is an uncommon cause of dysphagia, usually requiring surgical excision by thoracotomy. A case of thoracoscopic excision is described demonstrating reduced morbidity and rapid recovery.

Video-assisted thoracoscopic resection of a mediastinal cyst: report of a case

Video-assisted endoscopic surgery has recently been expanding its potential, which is shown by our report herein describing the case of a 23-year-old woman for whom successful thoracoscopic resection of a mediastinal cystic lesion was carried out. The patient's postoperative course was uneventful with minimal pain and a prompt recovery. Histological examination confirmed that the lesion was a benign cystic teratoma. We believe that video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery will become the standard procedure for most mediastinal cystic lesions in the future.