Results of pneumonectomy with resection of the tracheal bifurcation

: The results of pneumonectomy with resection of tracheal bifurcation in 779 patients reported by 54 authors for the period of 44 years are reviewed. The analysis of all the data showed that this operation remains one of the most dangerous and rare surgical procedures. Lethality in total bifurcation resection averaged 24.3% and in partial resection--10.2%. Because of lack of experience there is no distinct indications for the operation in cancer patients. The authors have performed 111 pneumonectomies with bifurcation resection (39 with circulatory resection) with lethality of 2.7% and 5-year survival of 25%. This proves the ability of updated surgical technique to decrease surgical risk and extend indications for surgery of local cancer.