Mediastinoscopy

Mediastinoscopy is a surgical procedure to look at the inside of the upper chest between and in front of the lungs (mediastinum). During a mediastinoscopy, a small cut (incision) is made in the neck just above the breastbone or on the left side of the chest next to the breastbone. Then a thin scope (mediastinoscope) is…

Mediastinoscopy

Mediastinoscopy

Mediastinoscopy is a surgical procedure to look at the inside of the upper chest between and in front of the lungs (mediastinum).

During a mediastinoscopy, a small cut (incision) is made in the neck just above the breastbone or on the left side of the chest next to the breastbone. Then a thin scope (mediastinoscope) is inserted through the opening. A tissue sample (biopsy) can be collected through the mediastinoscope and then examined under a microscope for lung problems, such as infection, inflammation, or cancer.

Current as ofJune 9, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine
David C. Stuesse, MD – Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery

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