Abstract
Technical highpoints of the mediastinal dissection and its results in 70 cases operated between 1980 and 1993 are discussed. The way of sternal incision is important for the following dissecting procedures. Resection of the sternal manubrium and the sternoclavicular joint together with ipsilateral half of the clavicle is preferred to the longitudinal sternal splitting. Furthermore, utmost care should be taken to preserve the fine vascular network around the trachea and the greater vessels. The vagus nerve and the bronchial artery should also be preserved to minimize the risk of the tracheal collapse and the rupture of the innominate artery. Finally, adequate estimation of general complications is indispensable to prevent fatal postoper ative complications.
