[Video-assisted extensive thymectomy in the treatment of autoimmune myasthenia].
In the surgical treatment of autoimmune myasthenia, complete thymectomy is considered indispensable to ensure maximum clinical results. From May 1995 through June 1997, we carried out video-assisted extended thymectomy via sole left access in 16 patients. There were no deaths and no major complications. At the intermediate-term follow-up, remission and improvement rates were 19% and 56% respectively. These results were similar to those achieved on the last 16 patients who had extended thymectomy via median sternotomy. We believe that the advantages of the video-assisted approach render it a reliable option for the surgical management of autoimmune myasthenia.
Mineo
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Cattedra di Chirurgia Toracica, Università degli Studi Tor Vergata di Roma.
Pompeo
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E
Pistolese
C
C
Cristino
B
B
Bernardi
G
G
Curatola
M
M
D000328:Adult; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009157:Myasthenia Gravis / Q000601:surgery*; D013249:Sternum / Q000601:surgery*; D013906:Thoracoscopy / Q000379:methods; D013934:Thymectomy / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014743:Videotape Recording