Background. We present our experience with thoracoscopic resection of media
stinal bronchogenic cysts in adults.
Methods. From November 1990 to September 1993, 20 patients with mediastinal
bronchogenic cysts were operated on by thoracoscopy. The average cyst size
was 4.9 cm, and the largest diameter was 10 cm. Ten cysts were located in
the middle mediastinum and 10 in the posterior mediastinum. Two cysts were
complicated.
Results. Thirteen bronchogenic cysts were resected completely by thoracosco
py. We had to convert thoracoscopy into thoracotomy because of bleeding in
two cases and because of major adhesions to vital structures in five cases.
There were no operative deaths and no postoperative complications. Mean ho
spital stay was significantly less in the completely thoracoscopically trea
ted group. Long-term follow-up (range, 4.5 to 7.5 years) showed no late com
plications and no recurrence.
Conclusions. Preoperative complications, intraoperative injuries, and major
adhesions to vital structures seem to be the only unfavorable conditions t
o thoracoscopic treatment of bronchogenic cysts. This study found encouragi
ng results for thoracoscopic excision of mediastinal bronchogenic cysts in
selected patients. (C) 2000 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.