title: Muscle-saving lateral axillary thoracotomy.
abstract: Seventy-five consecutive thoracotomies through a lateral axillary thoracotomy incision are reviewed. The limited approach is a muscle-splitting incision with preservation of the Latissimus Dorsi and Pectoralis Major muscles and splitting of the Serratus Anterior muscle. Detailed description of the operative technique is given, and a review of morbidity and mortality is included. We conclude that the lateral axillary incision is a good alternative to the standard postero-lateral approach, as it provides excellent visibility and allows for all pulmonary surgical procedures, with minimal postoperative discomfort.
authors.affiliation: Department of General Surgery, AZ Maria Middelares, Ghent, Belgium.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Claeys
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Flamme
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Vanoverbeke
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Muysoms
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D016629:Esophagectomy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007366:Intercostal Muscles / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010369:Pectoralis Muscles / Q000601:surgery; D011013:Pneumonectomy / Q000379:methods; D012272:Ribs / Q000601:surgery; D013908:Thoracotomy / Q000379:methods*