The "cut-in patch-out" technique for Pancoast tumor resections results in postoperative pain reduction: a case control study

Background Since 2001 we have utilized a novel surgical approach for Pancoast tumors in which lobectomy and mediastinal lymph node dissection are performed directly though the chest wall defect. The defect is then patched at the completion of the procedure ("cut-in patch-out") thereby avoiding a separate thoracotomy with rib spreading. We undertook a study to compare outcomes of this novel "cut-in patch-out" technique with traditional thoracotomy for patients with Pancoast tumors.