P F A Bakker1, R P J Budde, P F Gründeman. 1. Heart Lung Center Utrecht, University Medical Center G02.523, Post Office Box 85500, 3508, Utrecht, GA, The Netherlands. P.F.A.Bakker@hli.azu.nl
Abstract
BACKGROUND: In the search for novel approaches to thoracoscopic thymectomy we assessed the feasibility of a subxiphoid approach using computer-enhanced instruments and sternal lifting. METHODS: In 12 pigs, after lifting of the sternum, ports were placed subxiphoid (stereoscope) and in the left and right fourth intercostal space (instruments). Using computer-enhanced instruments, dissection of the thymus and anterior mediastinal fat pads was started at the diaphragm and continued cephalad. RESULTS: After setup of the robot system (23 +/- 6 min, mean +/- SD), the thymus, including both superior horns, and fat pads in the anterior mediastinum and cardiophrenic angles were dissected (109 +/- 23 min), with excellent view of the phrenic nerves. Visual inspection after sternotomy after the procedure showed all thymic and fatty tissue was removed. CONCLUSIONS: In the pig, endoscopic extended thymectomy can be safely performed by subxiphoid access using computer-enhanced instruments, sternal lifting, and three ports total.
BACKGROUND: In the search for novel approaches to thoracoscopic thymectomy we assessed the feasibility of a subxiphoid approach using computer-enhanced instruments and sternal lifting. METHODS: In 12 pigs, after lifting of the sternum, ports were placed subxiphoid (stereoscope) and in the left and right fourth intercostal space (instruments). Using computer-enhanced instruments, dissection of the thymus and anterior mediastinal fat pads was started at the diaphragm and continued cephalad. RESULTS: After setup of the robot system (23 +/- 6 min, mean +/- SD), the thymus, including both superior horns, and fat pads in the anterior mediastinum and cardiophrenic angles were dissected (109 +/- 23 min), with excellent view of the phrenic nerves. Visual inspection after sternotomy after the procedure showed all thymic and fatty tissue was removed. CONCLUSIONS: In the pig, endoscopic extended thymectomy can be safely performed by subxiphoid access using computer-enhanced instruments, sternal lifting, and three ports total.
Authors: Robert C Ashton; Karen M McGinnis; Cliff P Connery; Daniel G Swistel; Douglas R Ewing; Joseph J DeRose Journal: Ann Thorac Surg Date: 2003-02 Impact factor: 4.330
Authors: A Jaretzki; A S Penn; D S Younger; M Wolff; M R Olarte; R E Lovelace; L P Rowland Journal: J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg Date: 1988-05 Impact factor: 5.209