A Novel and Simple Method for Establishing the Subxiphoid Approach During Thoracoscopic Thymectomy.

Abstract

The transsubxiphoid thoracoscopic approach is an ideal method for thoracoscopic thymectomy. This report introduces a simple method to establish the subxiphoid approach. The surgeon made an incision and inserted a homemade gasbag into the retrosternal space. The gasbag was inflated with 600 to 800 mL of air. The inflated gasbag was maintained for 5 minutes and removed. This technique was performed in 20 cases. This method provides the surgeon with a good field of view, rare thoracoscope contamination, and a smoother surgical procedure. Therefore, the method described in this study is a powerful option to establish the subxiphoid approach during thoracoscopic thymectomy.