[Thymectomy].

Abstract

Extended thymectomy reported by Masaoka in 1981 is a standard surgical treatment in patients with myasthenia gravis. Thoracoscopic thymectomy, which could be less invasive, has been widely accepted for an anterior mediastinal lesion in addition to the conventional median sternotomy approach. In thoracoscopic thymectomy, artificial pneumothorax using carbon deoxide(CO2) insufflation or chest wall lifting using rib hook can contribute to make better surgical view with enough working space. Recently, thoracoscopic thymectomy with subxiphoid approach has been reported with its usefulness. Since MGTX trial revealed the significant efficacy of thymectomy in myasthenia gravis patients aged up to 65, the number of patients having operative indication may increase. Therefore, thoracic surgeons should acquire the safe and effective technical skill of thymectomy.