Video-assisted thoracoscopic extended thymectomy for myasthenia gravis: analysis of 107 cases

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results of video-assisted thoracoscopic extended thymectomy for myasthenia gravis. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed data from 107 patients received thoracoscopic extended thymectomy from June 1995 to June 2004. All patients had confirmed diagnosis of myasthenia gravis by clinical manifestation and electromyogram. Thoracoscopic extended thymectomy as well as dissection of all fatty tissue anterior to the pericardium was performed. RESULTS: During a follow-up of 1-98 months, symptom was significantly improved in 83% of patients, including 34 patients experienced complete remission. There was no postoperative mortality. CONCLUSION: Favorable results of video-assisted thoracoscopic extended thymectomy can be achieved in patients with myasthenia gravis. The technique is safe and minimally invasive.