“Thoracoscopic robot-assisted extended thymectomy in human cadaver.”
Ishikawa (2009).
Surg Endosc 23(2): 459-61.
Thoracoscopic robot-assisted extended thymectomy was performed in a human cadaver. The technique utilized the da Vinci surgical system inserted through the subxiphoid approach with the sternum lifted upward (anteriorly). A small subxiphoid incision and two additional thoracoports were made in the chest wall, and the sternum was lifted by a new lifting retractor system. This method provided sufficient view and working space in the anterior mediastinum. Complete thymectomy was performed with facility. The robotic system provides superior optics and allows for enhanced dexterity. Minimally invasive robotic-assisted thymectomy is an effective procedure and may add benefits for both surgeon and patients.
“Surgical Approaches to the Thymus in Patients with Myasthenia Gravis.”
Magee (2009).
Thoracic Surgery Clinics 19(1): 83-89.
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder of neuromuscular transmission affecting 2 out of every 100,000 people. Neurologists and surgeons still debate what role surgery should play in its management. Many patients who might benefit from thymectomy are denied the opportunity because of misconceptions, ignorance, or trepidation. By offering effective methods of less invasive thymectomy to these patients, a significant number of patients and treating neurologists previously unwilling to consider surgery may realize the benefits of this established, proven treatment alternative. The surgical approaches reviewed include: transcervical, videothoracoscopic, robotic-assisted, transsternal, and combined transcervical-transsternal maximal thymectomy. © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.