Modified French window as an alternative to thoracotomy for complex intrathoracic pathology.

Video-assisted thoracic surgery is associated with less pain and shorter recovery than open procedures. Due to limited exposure, video-assisted thoracic surgery is not suitable for the management of all intrathoracic pathology. Muscle-sparing thoracotomies are smaller, but they are not associated with less pain or faster recovery. A modified French window is a useful approach to complex intrathoracic pathology and may result in less postoperative pain and shorter recovery than standard and muscle-sparring thoracotomies. This technique is suitable for the management of complex intrathoracic disease.