Comparison of open and minimally invasive thymectomies at a single institution

Abstract 

Background

Most thymectomies are performed via sternotomy. Minimally invasive thymectomy (MIT) has been described but its potential benefits and drawbacks remain unclear.

Methods

A retrospective chart review comparing thymectomies performed via sternotomy to MIT at a single institution between 2005 and 2009.

Results

Eight patients underwent MIT and 8 patients underwent sternotomy in the management of myasthenia gravis, thymic hyperplasia, or small thymic tumors. There was 1 perioperative death unrelated to the surgical procedure and no morbidity. The surgical time, estimated blood loss, and chest tube output was similar in both groups. The average hospital stay for MIT was 2.4 days compared with 4.3 days for sternotomy. One MIT patient remained on narcotic pain medication 2 weeks after surgery compared with 6 in the open group.

Conclusions

MIT can be performed with similar morbidity and efficacy as transsternal thymectomy. Patients require fewer narcotics and can be discharged earlier.

Keywords: Thymectomy, Thymoma, Myasthenia gravis, Robotic, Minimally invasive, VATS